Peter Lloyd in Tuebrook has had its pool closed since the on set of covid-19 but could be about to change
Peter Lloyd in Tuebrook has had its pool closed since the on set of covid-19 but could be about to change
The reopening of a long-delayed Liverpool leisure centre pool could finally be within reach after the scale of repairs needed at the site were uncovered. Since before the covid-19 pandemic, residents in Tuebrook had been unable to access the swimming pool at Peter Lloyd Lifestyles centre.
There had been hopes at the start of last year that after a staggered reopening, swimmers would be able to get back in the water. After four years of delay, increasing bills, anger and confusion, the doors finally reopened on the dry side of the venue on Bankfield Road in July 2024.
Now Liverpool Council officials have said an opening day may now be in sight with the majority of the work complete. In a project update to ward members, seen by the ECHO, Mark Lancaster, Liverpool Council business and strategic delivery manager, said a number of defects had been identified around the pool which have now been resolved.
It is estimated that closure of the site has lost the local authority £1m a year in potential revenue. Cllr Liam Robinson, leader of Liverpool Council, admitted on the radio last year that the pool had been closed for too long and a “myriad of different things” had contributed to the lengthy delays.
During the dry-side reopening in July 2024, Cllr Harry Doyle, cabinet member for health, wellbeing and culture, said the two-stage opening required “a few more weeks to ensure the pool is in full working order.”
A full 18 months have passed since Cllr Doyle’s proclamation. In his update, Mr Lancaster said challenges had emerged in changing the 40-year old equipment at Peter Lloyd.
He said: “Since the successful reopening of the Lifestyles Peter Lloyd dry side in July 2024 we have been working hard to get the pool side open. Following the opening of the dry side of the facility – which is proving to be a really welcomed investment – a number of defects were identified in the pool area.
“These involved leaks, pumps, seals, the flow meter, valves, electrical boards and pipework and bracketery. We also needed to repair tiling within the pool hall.
“In addition, a replacement air handling unit was needed which would meet current regulations. The installation of the new equipment required adjustment to existing pipe runs along with some work to the fabric of the building to allow installation.
“I am pleased to say that this work has now completed. The new air heating system is undergoing commissioning this week and we are hoping to announce the re-opening of the pool soon, dependent on the last few areas of scheduled work being completed.”
Cllr Joe Dunne, who represents Tuebrook Breckside Park, said: “I welcome the news that work on the Peter Lloyd Leisure Centre pool is now nearing completion. Residents have waited far too long to see this facility fully reopen, so it’s positive to see real progress being made.
“I will continue pushing for a clear reopening date and transparent communication so the community can finally benefit from this vital local service again.”
Mr Lancaster’s note added: “We appreciate how important the facility is to the local and wider city community and are hopeful that the pool can soon re-open safely, providing the opportunity for our customers to once again access the valued community asset.”
