Residents have spoken of their frustration over the ongoing closure of a local pool after delays following major work being carried out.
Work has been ongoing at Volair Kirkby Leisure Centre to install a carbon saving energy system, including 11 air source pumps, LED lighting and solar panels at the leisure centre.
The works are part of a major scheme funded by the government through Knowsley Council aiming to reduce emissions from the site as part of the council’s climate energy action plan.
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The swimming pool has remained closed while the works are being carried out and although the rest of the leisure centre is operating, the pool, which was due to reopen on March 31 has yet to be reopened to the public.
Volair announced on March 28 the pool would remain shut after April 1 due to delays involving a substation link to the centre.
In a statement posted on the Volair website and social media, a spokesperson said: “We have now been informed of a delay while we await Scottish Power in completing a new substation linked to the project.
“We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause to members and groups using the pool. We are working together with Knowsley Council to agree a reopening date as soon as possible and we will update you in due course.”
One resident responded to the post stating: “Come on Scottish Power get your act in gear, this work must have been planned months/ years in advance. We’re all piling on the pounds here not being able to swim!”
Others have taken to social media in exasperation at not being able to take their children swimming during the Easter holidays.
One parent said: “Staff are brilliant. The pool is vital to our community and schools. It being closed this Easter holiday has really taken away a place for kids and families to go.”
Another person said the delays were because a generator relating to the works was “put in the wrong place” adding “swimming baths won’t be opening any time soon me thinks, hope I am wrong.”
Knowsley Council, Volair and Scottish Power were all contacted by the LDRS about the ongoing closure of the pool and when it was due to reopen.
Knowsley Council said delays involving Scottish Power’s connection of a substation were behind the ongoing closure and “outside of the council’s control”.
A Knowsley Council’s spokesperson said: “Work is ongoing at Volair Kirkby to install a new carbon saving system which will make energy saving improvements to the building and facilities.”
The spokesperson added: “The works had been progressing on-time, however there has been a delay in some of the works progressing relating to the location of a new sub-station. These works are overseen by Scottish Power and are outside of the Council’s control.
“Scottish Power were required to obtain additional electrical earthing and soil testing surveys before approving the final works, which unfortunately resulted in this delay.
“The Council has requested that Scottish Power prioritise the works, given it is impacting on heating and hot water at the site and the closure of the swimming pool.”
A spokesperson for Scottish Power Energy Networks said: “Due to new regulatory requirements, the substation had to be moved, which meant further investigative works were required to take place, impacting expected timescales.
“We’re continuing to progress the works as quickly as possible and continue to work closely with Knowsley Council.”
A spokesperson for Volair said: “The gym, fitness classes, sports hall and 3G pitches remain open as usual. The swimming pool will remain closed until the heating and hot water issues are resolved.
“Members have been updated on the situation and they have been advised that they can use the facilities, including swimming pools, in any other Volair centre.”
No date has been provided by Knowsley Council or Volair for when the pool will reopen for swimmers.
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