SWIMMERS in Malvern will have to wait a while longer for their chance to go for a swim, with the town’s pool not scheduled to re-open until next year.

As a result of redevelopment work, the Malvern Splash pool will remain closed until January 2021, despite other leisure centres in the county re-opening.

Malvern Hills District Council and Freedom Leisure decided to take advantage of the coronavirus lockdown to get a head start on the multi-million pound refurbishment of the pool, which includes full refurbishment of the swimming pool changing rooms including dedicated changing facilities for people with disabilities and additional family changing areas.

READ MORE: Malvern Splash set to undergo £2 million revamp

Work is expected to begin at the end of August, instead of October as originally planned. It is hoped the work will be completed in December, but Malvern’s swimmers will have to travel elsewhere for the foreseeable future.

Managing director of Freedom Leisure, Ivan Horsfall-Turner, said: “The timetable change means when the centre is eventually allowed to reopen, the swimming pool will be unavailable. This will avoid the potential disruption caused by having to reopen and then close again shortly after.”

There will also be a new interactive water play feature for younger swimmers, underwater lighting and PA system, a new flume and a new wave machine to enhance the experience for swimmers.

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The pool side area itself will also be revamped. A new UV filtration system has already been installed that will improve water quality and lower levels of chlorine.

A range of environmental measures including more energy efficient pumps, boilers and LED lighting have been installed while the centre has been closed due to the coronavirus pandemic. The main project also includes the installation of energy efficient glazing and solar panels.

Leader of Malvern Hills District Council Cllr Sarah Rouse said: “I’m delighted to confirm our commitment to delivering this £2million scheme which will deliver first class facilities for residents.

“We know some people may be disappointed they have to wait a while longer to enjoy a swim but the revised timetable will minimise disruption meaning people will be able to enjoy the benefits of this significant investment much earlier than planned.