Castle Point Borough Council (CPBC) has announced the start of work on a £745,000 scheme to refurbish Runnymede Pool in Canvey Island, Essex.

First opened in 1973 and revamped during the 1990s, the pool is now set to undergo work to replace pipework, filtration and a chemical dosing plant. A new entrance, reception area and upgraded changing rooms also form part of the renovation, which is designed to ensure it meets requirements set out in the Disability Discrimination Act.

The council expects Runnymede Pool to remain closed for six months while work is carried out, with alternative arrangements made for users and Runnymede Swmming Club. Peter Burch, the cabinet member for environment and leisure at CPBC, said: "We have been making plans for the refurbishment for nearly a year.

"This has involved meetings with user groups and with staff to keep them informed on what is happening and to make plans for the duration of the closure."