Pool closed after legionella find

Bangor swimming pool will remain closed until test results are clear

A swimming pool has been closed after elevated levels of legionella bacteria were found in the shower water.

Bangor swimming pool in Gwynedd has been closed since Monday after the bacteria, which causes Legionnaires' disease, was found in a routine test.

Gwynedd council said the pool itself was free of the bacteria and work had started on disinfecting the showers.

The National Public Health Service said it had not received any increase in the number of legionella cases reported.

A Gwynedd council spokesman the swimming pool would remain closed until officials are satisfied all test results are clear.

"Notices will be placed at the swimming pool entrance and on the council website to inform the public when services will resume," he said.

'Safety'

"The safety of our customers is paramount and all steps are being taken to re-open as soon as it is safe to do so.

"We would like to apologise for any inconvenience this incident may cause."

The bacteria can cause Legionnaires' disease, a rare form of pneumonia, most often contracted by inhaling mist from water sources.

It cannot be passed from one person to another.

Dr Judy Hart, consultant in communicable disease control for the National Public Health Service, said local GPs had been informed as a precautionary measure.

"It is reassuring to note that to date, we have not received any increase in the number of legionella cases reported," she said.