AIREBOROUGH Leisure Centre’s swimming pool has re-opened after major refurbishments.

The pool, which has been closed for more than two years, was officially unveiled at the weekend as part of “significant” work at the centre.

Improvements at the Guiseley complex include a re-tiled pool and pool hall, with new windows, and a village style changing room suitable for groups and families, boasting modern cubicles, showers and toilets.

As part of the refurbishment, which includes a £500,000 contribution from National Lottery funding provided by Sport England, a Changing Places facility catering for disabled users has also been introduced, and a new modern spin room is expected to be completed in the near future.

The refurbishments also include improvements to the customer service reception, as well as a library and café, and nearly 30 extra spaces in the car park.

Councillor Mohammed Rafique, Leeds City Council’s executive member for environment and active lifestyles, said: “We are delighted that the wide-ranging improvements made through the significant refurbishment programme at Aireborough Leisure Centre can now be showcased to our service users and the local community.

“We’ve made a number of alterations as part of the revamp, and introduced a number of new facilities. These include a re-tiled pool and pool hall, library, café, a revamped customer services reception and modern changing rooms that look fantastic.”

The massive revamp of the pool and its facilities has been beset by problems including cracks in the ceiling and the previous widespread use of asbestos.

Delays in re-opening have caused anger and frustration among local people who have had to travel to pools in Otley, Holt Park or Kirkstall.

Earlier this year Guiseley’s MP Stuart Andrew visited the leisure centre to see the problems for himself after complaints from constituents.

He said: “Whilst understanding that there have been some issues during the refurbishment it has frankly taken far too long with delay after delay.”

A £1.2 million spending package was agreed in November 2016 for work on the 1960s building, including the major facelift for its swimming pool and facilities. Work began in 2017, but the anticipated completion date had to be set back due to “unforeseeable issues”.

When the opening date was announced Cllr Debra Coupar, Leeds City Council’s executive member for communities, said: “The development of our Community Hub programme is a key element of our vision to offer integrated, accessible services at the heart of local communities. It is fantastic therefore that local residents in and around Guiseley will be able to benefit and access a mixture of important services under one roof at Aireborough, from housing to council tax, to job shops.”