A POPULAR swimming pool is set to shut its doors for good after it was decided reopening it would be ‘financially unviable’ and our readers were sad to see it go.

Allerdale Borough Council has announced that Keswick Pool will close permanently following recent investigations which unveiled significant costs.

The council says the pool, at Keswick Leisure Centre, is already more than 10 years past its anticipated lifespan. Maintenance work carried out during the pandemic while the pool was closed uncovered a number of age-related problems related to tiling, drainage and filters.

Concerns were also raised about the working order of the pool plant systems, given their age and the fact they have not been operational for over a year. It is estimated that relining the pool and repairing drainage channels would cost between £150,000 and £200,000 – refilling the pool and reheating it would alone cost £20,000.

News and Star reader Ula Sowinska said: “What a shame. My kids loved it there. It’s the only pool with a big slide and the only shallow pool toddlers can walk around in and gain confidence in the water. I can’t believe there will be no pool now in Keswick.”

Billy Stephenson said: “This was where I properly met my now wife. So many great memories and such a great place for locals and visitors. The school managed swimming lessons there, the cheap swimming during the height of summer. Such a shame and something should be done.”

Joan Briggs said: “We loved going when our son was young and he took his daughter.

Josh Caine said: “I used to love this pool when I was younger, a real shame. I will not be able to take my little one to enjoy it.”

Su Latham said: “What a shame, many happy hours spent here.”

Paul McConaghy said: “Loved taking my kids to that pool and having something to eat at the poolside cafe.”