Work resumes on Ripon's new swimming pool after coronavirus delays

The six-lane pool, still due to open in 2021, is being built at the existing Ripon Leisure Centre on Dallamires Lane.

Workers at the construction site were forced to down tools on March 23 when the lockdown was introduced.

But at the end of April, staff were able to return under new social distancing rules.

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Coun Stanley Lumley, cabinet member for culture, tourism and sport at Harrogate Borough Council, said it was a "great disappointment" when the project came to a halt.

He told a recent virtual meeting: "Following very closely with the government guidelines we have now been able to restart the programme of works.

"The opening of the facility will be slightly delayed."

Planning permission for the swimming pool was granted in June last year - despite concerns over a sink hole risk.

Campaigners also raised objections that the new development did not include a learner pool. However, these calls were later withdrawn over fears the project would get pulled altogether.

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The multi-million pound project will also include a refurbishment of the leisure centre.

There will be a new main entrance and lobby, changing rooms and health suite, two dance studios, a spin studio and a meeting room

The Ripon Spa Baths will close when the new pool is open.

By Jacob Webster, Local Democracy Reporter

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