THIS SATURDAY (April 2), will be a big day for users of Ledbury Swimming Pool, with an open day planned to give details about the imminent £2.3m restoration of the complex, off Lawnside Road.

Visitors will be able to "see and hear about plans for the pool", ahead of work starting in June.

The news has been welcomed by Ledbury's mayor, Cllr Annette Crowe who said: "It's fantastic news for Ledbury; although it is long overdue.

"I think this work should have started three or four years ago. But this is a great investment in Ledbury, for all generations to enjoy."

A team from Halo, which runs the complex for Herefordshire Council, will be at hand from 10am to 3pm to answer questions, including how people will be able to stay fit during the ten long months that the pool and gym will be shut.

Centre manager, Sarah Jones said: "During the temporary closure of the facilities, June 2016 to April 2017, we we welcome visitors to our temporary gym, which we are opening in what used to be the Youth Centre in Bye Street."

This will temporarily bring into re-use and community building which has been closed since 2013.

Halo say the long-awaited swimming pool revamp will be "a massive refurbishment" that will create a new look centre, complete with bigger gym and exercise studio, new sauna and steam room, family friendly changing facilities and upgraded reception".

The project is a partnership between Herefordshire Council and leisure provider, Halo.

In anouncing the start date and schedule, earlier this year, Cllr Harry Bramer, cabinet member for contracts and assets said: "This is a major investment in leisure facilities in Ledbury which is great news for the local community who feared the closure of the pool over recent years."