The man leading a campaign for a multi-million pound swimming pool revamp says he is positive the “vision” will be realised.

Last night, the Ilkley Pool Group released more details of their plans to refurbish the town’s swimming pool, which sits next to the famous lido and has been described as “out of date” and “architectural vandalism”.

After submitting reports to Bradford Council, which runs the pool and lido site on Denton Road, Richard Threlfall, who has been leading the pool group’s bid, says he remains hopeful a plan can be put into place, despite the current economic crisis. He is hoping the council will provide funds for a full feasibility study and business plan into the scheme, which includes a new indoor pool, cafe, children’s pool, gym and sports hall, following a consultation last year.

“We had an overwhelmingly positive response and it is clear that Ilkley is united in its view that the existing indoor pool is well past its sell by date,” Mr Threlfall said.

“Many of those who responded avoid Ilkley pool and take themselves and their children to Skipton pool to avoid the unpleasant changing facilities and lukewarm showers that distinguish Ilkley’s facilities.

“We have completely overhauled the designs and have shared them with Bradford Council. Bradford have been very helpful and constructive in our dealings with them and I remain positive that we will find a way with them to achieve the vision we have set out in our report.”

The new designs include a modern art deco white curved entrance turret and a flat green roof to protect views across the valley. Although the majority of the proposals surround plans for the indoor pool, Mr Threlfall said several people had suggested water in the outdoor lido should be heated.

Read more in the Ilkley Gazette.