The new national pool in Swansea

The 50 metre pool which replaced the ageing Empire Pool in Cardiff was opened only six months ago.

Swansea council said the faults had not interfered with events or training sessions.

Swansea council said although most problems had been fixed, contractors still had to finish paintwork in the main hall and rectify problems with the heating and ventilation system.

The council said no extra costs would be incurred because of the faults.

Without a doubt the pool has had a major effect on performance levels Gary Rosser, Welsh national swimming coach

But despite the problems, top swimmers say they are delighted with the pool.

Welsh national coach Gary Rosser said: "There were teething problems but now everything is perfect."

"Welsh swimming has had one of its best years ever, 68 national records have been broken through the year.

"Without a doubt the pool has had a major effect on performance levels."

City councillors have been told that a contractor's claim for more money was being addressed through an adjudication process.

The outcome of the process is not expected to be known for several months.

A spokesperson for Swansea council said: "Any large building project will find small details which need ironing out once it's been completed, particularly a project of this scale.

"The defects are minor and have not interfered with the successful operation of the pool."

The pool on Sketty Lane replaced the Empire Pool, which was built for the 1958 Empire Games - forerunner of the Commonwealth Games - and which closed four years ago.

It boasts an eight lane 50 metre competition pool alongside a 25 metre training and warm-up pool.

There is seating for up to 1,100 spectators.

The Sports Council for Wales injected �8.5m, and both Swansea council and Swansea University contributed to the costs.