Apology after pool closure brought forward amid 'new system fault'

OneRen has apologised after it was forced to bring forward the temporary closure of Erskine Swimming Pool in light of a “new system fault”.

Plans were in place to close the facility at Bridgewater Shopping Centre from Monday, December 16 for maintenance work.

However, this has been “accelerated” after the venue shut in recent days due to an issue with its air handling units (AHUs), meaning water and air temperatures couldn’t reach the levels required to open.

As a result, improvement works will now begin with immediate effect, with the pool being drained in the coming days.

A OneRen spokesperson said: “Despite our best efforts, we have been unable to resolve those issues.

“It has become apparent that the problem we are experiencing with the AHUs cannot be addressed prior to the planned closure for refurbishment.

“We have, therefore, accelerated the closure date for Erskine Pool and refurbishment works will commence with immediate effect.

“We apologise for any inconvenience this causes as we work to improve the pool and the customer experience there, but hope customers understand the reasons why it’s best that we begin our planned works now.

“We look forward to welcoming everyone back in the spring.”

OneRen added it is investing £65,000 to retile the pool and replace the filter medium as part of its “commitment to improving customer experience.”

The pool is likely to be closed until the end of February.

Councillor Sam Mullin, a Labour representative for Erskine and Inchinnan, conceded this would be a blow for the community.

He said: “It’s going to be a disappointment for people…it’s going to be a dent because it means people have got to travel if they want to go swimming.

“Not everybody has a car in Erskine, there are young people who go to the pool, there are people who use it. It’s got to be sorted.”

Customers with swimming lessons have been advised and will be contacted directly with details about when classes will resume. Direct debit payments will be suspended until classes return.

Pools at the Lagoon Leisure Centre, On-X Linwood, Renfrew Victory Baths and Johnstone Community Sports Hub will remain open to customers.