Pool's improvements after refurb 'not visible'

Users of a swimming pool complex have complained that improvements made during a six-month refurbishment are not "visible".

The Lagoons at Doncaster Dome closed in November for the £15m upgrade and will reopen to the public on 22 May.

Yet after Doncaster Council shared a social media post about the work, many of the 1,400 people who commented expressed negative views.

Andrew Burden, chair of the Doncaster Culture and Leisure Trust, which runs the venue for the council, said many of the improvements had taken place "behind the scenes".

Some of the changes were to ensure the 1980s sports centre building meets the standards of its Grade II listing.

Burden added: "While these are not visible, they will enhance our visitor experience."

There has been work to the pools, flumes, changing area, and mechanical heating and water filter system.

The glazing on the roof has also been replaced and the entrance area redesigned.

Burden added: "We know how much The Lagoons have been missed and how much our customers enjoy having swimming available at The Dome."

He said visitors would notice a "visible difference" in these areas.

Cabinet member for public health, councillor James Church, said: "Visitors will be able to see all the refurbishment undertaken, giving The Dome a fresh, exciting, modern feel to it, with a nod to the past in respect of the heritage listing."

The complex has a number of other facilities, including a large sports and concert hall, a split-level ice rink and a gym.

The Dome was Europe's largest leisure centre when it was built in 1989, and it was given listed status in 2023.

Church said the project was part of "vital" council investment to improve leisure facilities across Doncaster, making "staying healthy even more accessible for residents".

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