A community leader has welcomed plans for a £1.4 million overhaul of Colchester Leisure World's popular Leisure Pool, saying the investment is "long overdue".
Colchester City Council has confirmed the facility will close at the end of this month to allow major refurbishment works to take place, with the pool not expected to reopen until early 2027.
Councillor Tim Young said the improvements were badly needed but warned the authority could face criticism if the project runs behind schedule or over budget.
He said: "It's long overdue. The Leisure Pool has been looking tired and a bit shabby for some time.
"The investment is welcome, but it's obviously going to impact the council's income while the facility is closed.
"Let's hope the refurbishment stays on time and on budget because residents will rightly expect that.
"It's something we in the Labour group will be keeping a very close eye on."
Deputy council leader David King also welcomed the announcement, describing the closure as a necessary step to secure the future of the facility.
He said: "Leisure World is loved by many residents and families across Colchester.
"While the closure will be disappointing for some, these improvements represent an investment in health, wellbeing, family fun and the long-term future of the centre."
The refurbishment forms part of a wider programme of investment aimed at modernising Leisure World's facilities and improving the experience for visitors.
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