AN EYE-OPENING amount of money has been spent on the refurbishment of Craig-y-Don paddling pool, as the site edges closer to opening.

The pool was finally filled this week, after the local authority came under heavy criticism last year after revealing that the paddling pools would not re-open that summer.

This was due to a high risk of people slipping, with pendulum 'slip tests' carried out on the paddling pools in January 2023 and subsequent reports received in February 2023.

Despite the paddling pools in Rhos-on-Sea, Llanfairfechan and Penmaenmawr reopening almost two months ago, no opening date has been earmarked for the Craig-y-Don pool.

READ MORE:

Craig-y-Don paddling pool being filled with hopes for reopening

Update on reopening of ‘much-loved’ Craig-y-Don paddling pool

According to a Freedom of Information (FOI) request, the cost of the refurbishment up to this point is £231,604, the majority of which the council said had been covered by external grants.

The refurbishment included base slab repairs, a fresh full non-slip coating, and the replacement of expansion joints.

A further £26,000 was spent refurbishing the steps.

The council added that the final valuation might rise.

In a response to the FOI, a Conwy County Borough Council spokesperson said: "The cost of the work to refurbish the pool is £231,604, which has included base slab repairs, replacement expansion joints, backflow mitigations, removal of finishes and full non-slip coating replacement. 

"We are waiting for the final valuation which may include some additional costs.  Whilst the work has been ongoing, we have taken advantage of the closure to refurbish the steps which cost £26,000. 

"The majority of the refurbishment and step costs have been covered through external grants."