Tower Hamlets Council (THC) has announced that St George's Pool in East London, is to undergo a programme of improvements worth an estimated £700,000.

Working in partnership with operator Greenwich Leisure (GLL), the council has looked at a range of options to ensure local residents have access to good-quality swimming provision. Funded through its contract with GLL, THC said the improvements would not address all of the building's issues but would extend the lifespan of the facility.

Most of the cash will go towards structural repairs, although some will be made available for interior and exterior upgrade work. THC mayor Lutfur Rahman said: "We have looked into temporary solutions and listened to the views of residents and pool users - the best option is to extend the life of this important community facility."