Pool closure decision is expected

Speedwell pool is one of several recommended for closure

A decision on proposals to close some swimming pools in Bristol is expected at a council meeting on Thursday.

The council wants to close the north Bristol Baths, Speedwell and Filwood pools, and the Robin Cousins Sports Centre in Avonmouth.

It wants to replace outdated and expensive pools with refurbished facilities in "strategic locations".

Some city residents are opposed to the plans and are campaigning against the proposals.

The north Bristol baths in Bishopston are to shut in November, with the council being asked to approve plans to close Speedwell, Filwood and Robin Cousins at Thursday's meeting.

New pools are planned for Horfield and Henbury, to replace the existing baths in Henbury, Shirehampton and Bishopston, says the council.

A new PFI-funded leisure centre is scheduled for Hengrove, and Easton Leisure Centre has been recently refurbished to be the designated community pool for the north east of the city.

At the meeting, councillors will also be asked to support a study looking at the future need for leisure and swimming facilities in the Bedminster and Southville area.