SWIMMERS will soon be able to head back to the newly-refurbished fitness pool at Colchester Leisure World.

It has been closed since July 6, and was initially due to reopen on September 28.

Colchester Council, which runs the centre, said the new scheduled reopening date is next Monday. The pool has been newly lined and the water raised to near deck level, to make getting in and out of the pool easier. The building’s 30-year-old roof has also been replaced.

A new diving board, slide and new lighting will be installed soon. Last month’s reopening was delayed when asbestos was discovered.

It meant the annual Fire Swim and Phoenix Amateur Swimming Club’s 2009 gala had to be cancelled. Martin Hunt, councillor responsible for communication, customers and leisure, said: “The improvements to the fitness pool and pool hall roof are testament to Colchester Council’s continued investment in providing quality facilities for visitors and residents to enjoy.

“We have listened to our customers, and the improvement work, along with more developments coming soon, are in response to this.”