BOSSES at Irvine’s crisis-hit Portal have confirmed the swimming pools will be closed for almost 10 weeks while they fix the drainage.

The Irvine Times exclusively revealed two weeks ago that the pools at the £14million leisure centre would likely close for more than two months as contractors try to sort out the “defects to the pool”.

However at the time leisure centre bosses and North Ayrshire Council chiefs refused to confirm how long the works would take, but they released a statement saying the pools will close on Tuesday, April 23 and reopen on Friday, June 28.

A spokesperson for KA Leisure said: “Further to recently completed investigations at the Portal, remedial works have now been scheduled to take place resulting in a period of closure for both swimming pools.

“The works will rectify defects to the swimming pool drainage channels and some small areas of the pool surround. The programmed works will result in both swimming pools being closed between Tuesday, April 23 – Friday, June 28 Inclusive.

“Both pools are scheduled to reopen on Saturday, June 29. During the period of closure fitness and sports hall facilities will operate within the Portal as normal.

“Alternative swimming pool facilities are available at Auchenharvie Leisure Centre, Garnock Community Centre and Vikingar during the period of closure. Swimming pool timetables for each site can be accessed here.  

“Learn to swim participants, swimming pool members and aquatic clubs will be contacted regarding arrangements during the closure period.

“KA Leisure understands the frustration and disruption that this will cause to our customers and apologise for the inconvenience caused.”