CLWYD West MS Darren Millar has branded the lack of progress on re-opening a popular seaside paddling pool in Rhos-on-Sea “unacceptable”.

Conwy County Borough Council (CCBC) confirmed in April that paddling pools in Rhos-on-Sea, Llanfairfechan, Penmaenmawr and Craig y Don would not re-open in 2023 due to a high risk of people slipping.

It was claimed that the “only UK provider and installer” of a specialist anti-slip coating was not able to undertake the necessary work due to ill health.

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Conwy paddling pools yet to open for summer holidays

In May, the council updated the county’s elected representatives saying that an alternative contractor had been found, but failed to provide a timescale for the completion of the works.

The paddling pool in Rhos-on-Sea remains empty as a result.

After visiting the pool, Mr Millar said: “Local residents are furious at the failure of CCBC to resolve the maintenance issues in local seaside paddling pools and get them open for the summer.

“The paddling pool in Rhos-on-Sea is a popular facility which has always been well-used by locals and visitors throughout the summer months.

“The lack of progress in getting it re-opened is totally unacceptable. I urge the local authority to pull out all the stops to get our paddling pools open as soon as possible.”

Cllrs Jo Nuttall and Gareth Jones added: “In spite of promises, we are yet to see any signs of work commencing at the paddling pool in Rhos-on-Sea.

“It is such a shame to see the pool empty when children are off school and families are looking for free activities for them to enjoy.

“People are fed up of being fobbed off. they want the council to do whatever it takes to ensure that the pool in Rhos is open before the holidays are over.”

In response, Cllr Aaron Wynne, CCBC cabinet member for culture and leisure, said: “We continue to work on our paddling pools, we’re dealing with a number of structural issues, and ensuring we’ll have a quality base and finish once completed.

“This is a major investment to secure the long term future of these much loved community assets, and we do appreciate the communities’ patience whilst we carry out this essential work.

“The local contractor has gone over and above and we’re very grateful to them for all their hard work.

“We’re committed to getting the work completed safely and the facilities open as soon as we can.”