Hartlepool Borough Council decided to shut the Rossmere Way baths after a health and safety report showed repairs costing �450,000 were necessary.

The move forced a swimming club and primary schools to make alternative arrangements for lessons.

Now the town's mayor has revealed plans to boost facilities for enthusiasts.

Stuart Drummond said the decision to close the Rossmere pool was taken "reluctantly".

Moveable floor

"At the time of its closure on health and safety grounds, the pool wasn't operating to capacity," Mr Drummond said.

"Also, refurbishment work is about to start on the arson-hit Brinkburn pool and it should reopen in time for the new academic year.

"This will enable us to provide a full-time swimming programme for schools at Brinkburn, incorporating sessions that previously took place at Rossmere.

"I am also exploring the option of fitting a moveable floor to Brinkburn pool to provide variable water depths, and Hartlepool Swimming Club has indicated that it supports this idea in principle.

"Decisions to close swimming pools and other important public facilities are never taken lightly, but I want people to know that the council's commitment to swimming is as strong as ever and that we are determined to provide the best possible facilities."