Harrogate Council says it would cost around �1m to bring the Victorian pool up to modern standards and it is unlikely to be able to find the money.

Council leader Mike Gardner admits closure is an option but stresses a decision will not be taken until after talks on the council's budget in January.

Users of the pool are already expressing their disappointment at the news and a campaign may be set up to try and save what they see as a vital local facility.

Starbeck Baths in Spa Lane opened as the Prince of Wales Baths in 1870.

The only other public swimming pool in Harrogate is the Hydro in Jennyfield Drive which was opened in 1999.