Starbeck Baths in Harrogate will officially reopen on Monday 6 April 2009 after a £250,000 refurbishment.

In 2007, Harrogate Borough Council announced a 10-year £760,000 investment package to keep the pool open.

Work included improvements to the changing facilities, repairs to the poolside floor and walls, replacement of the suspended ceiling over the pool, structural works to the basement, boiler replacement and redecoration works. As the most economical and least disruptive option was to close the Baths for a five-week period the council also took the opportunity to carry out work to the reception area.

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Councillor Pat Jones, Cabinet Member for Cultural Services says, the contract has gone exceptionally well and the finishing touches will be made to allow the pool to reopen on time. She added: "Many local people have used this pool all their lives. The council is currently making arrangements for one of them to be VIP for the day and have the first swim in the refurbished facility on Monday 6 April."

(CD/JM)