A decision to build a new swimming pool in Maryport could be decided by the middle of January.

Consultants Knight Kavanagh & Page (KKP) are working on a feasibility study which will look at a need for a pool in the town. It has also identified three locations for the pool to be built should it go ahead.

Chairman of the pool committee, Annalee Holliday, confirmed that the county-owned swimming pool at Netherhall School remained and option but said the other two sites would be revealed next month.

The school’s pool was closed suddenly last spring, sending shock waves through the community.

Headteacher David Tromans said at the time that he had to balance the cost of urgent repairs to the pool against the even more urgent need to upgrade the school’s heating and boiler system.

He stressed education was his first priority.

Mrs Holliday said there were still concerns about bringing the school back into use, including parking issues. But she said all these details were being examined by KKP.

A public meeting was held after the pool was closed where residents expressed concerns about children living right on the coast not being able to learn to swim in their own town. The pool was used by all local schools.

Many were angry that the pool and its changing rooms had not been properly maintained and that there had been no warning of the closure.

Mr Tromans said the decision had been made after a safety inspection revealed that there were critical safety issues and there had had no choice but to close the pool urgently..

“The first thing they must establish, to allow us to apply for funding, is that there is a need for a pool here, given the number in towns nearby. Household income, public and private transport issues will be taken into consideration and I am hoping that the need will be established,” Mrs Holliday said.

Anyone wishing to comment on the need for a pool or to put forward ideas for the feasibility study can do so by calling 016169362387.

Mrs Holliday said there would be further public consultations after the feasibility study was published “when we will be able to discuss all options".