“UNAVOIDABLE” delays could mean Radcliffe Fitness Centre’s main pool remains closed for several more weeks.

The leisure centre was shut for safety inspections in early December after severe weather and strong winds dislodged several windows.

While the gym, teaching pool and car park at the back of the building re-opened within a few days, the main pool is still closed, with swimming lessons transferred to Castle Leisure Centre in Bury.

Bury Council officials had provisionally said the pool would re-open on January 31 – but have now revealed additional structural repairs are necessary.

Cllr Jane Lewis, cabinet member for leisure, tourism and culture, said: “Unfortunately, there have been some unavoidable delays in re-opening the main pool at Radcliffe.

“When work was being carried out to repair the windows and the internal cladding following December’s storm, the contractor discovered that some damage and deterioration had occurred over many years to other parts of the structure.

“It was sensible, therefore, to stop the work while further investigation and structural surveys are carried out.

“The integrity of the building is certainly safe, but the main pool will remain closed until the investigations are completed.

“At this stage it is too early to say how much damage there is and how long repairs would take.”

For more information: call the centre on 0161 253 7000.