Richmond Pool closure update: 26 June

We are undertaking essential repairs to the site in 2026 to the value of approximately £1.2 million. This will allow for the reopening of the swimming pool as part of our wider leisure investment strategy. The work will include:

• removal of sealed asbestos from the roof space
• replacing the ceiling
• upgrading the plant room
• mechanical and electrical repairs
• enhanced poolside and café lighting
• heating system upgrades

The gym will also benefit from upgraded equipment as part of our wider leisure investment strategy.

Next steps

The repair and improvement programme is underway and is due to be completed by the end of 2026.

We’d like to reassure all pool users and anyone else who previously accessed the building that the sealed asbestos we are removing hasn’t posed a risk to you.

We understand the ongoing closure of the pool is frustrating and truly appreciate your patience. Customers are welcome to use pool facilities at our neighbouring Active North Yorkshire sites.

The pool café is also closed but is expected to reopen as soon as possible while the works continue.

The mini golf is closed and will reopen as soon as possible.

There is no public access to the road from the station car park to the leisure and wellbeing hub via the underpass during the works. Diversion signs are in place showing the alternative route. 

The gym, class studio, sauna and steam room at the Richmond site remain open as normal, as are the businesses that operate from the site. The footpath leading to the riverside walk and the leisure and wellbeing hub will also remain open.

Annual swimming memberships

We are now refunding all annual swimming memberships. If you believe you are due a refund and have not been contacted by us, please email richmondlwh@northyorks.gov.uk so we can arrange this for you.

What do I do if I use my annual swimming membership for Aquafit?

You can go to one of the Active North Yorkshire centres at Bedale, Northallerton, Stokesley and Thirsk and Sowerby and and they will give you a free discount card for the period of closure giving you a reduced Aquafit class rate.

Swimming - 10 for 8 block booking

If you have a current/valid swimming 10 for 8 block booking card you have the following options:

1. These can be used for swims at our Active North Yorkshire centres at Bedale, Northallerton, Stokesley and Thirsk and Sowerby. Show your card at reception where it will be stamped.
2. If you don't want to visit another site, please keep your swimming 10 for 8 block booking card for future use, once we know how long the closure will last.

If you choose the first option and use up your swims at another site and then wish to continue visiting that site while we remain closed, you will be issued with a free discount card at that site for the remaining period of closure. This will give you a reduced swim rate.
 

Aquafit – 10 for 8 block booking

If you have a current or valid Aquafit 10 for 8 block booking card you have the following options:

1. These can be used for Aquafit classes at our Active North Yorkshire centres at Bedale, Northallerton, Stokesley and Thirsk and Sowerby. Show your card at reception where it will be stamped.
2. If you don't want to visit another site, please keep your Aquafit 10 for 8 block booking card for future use, once we know how long the closure will last.

If you choose the first option and use up your Aquafit sessions at another site and wish to continue visiting that site while we remain closed, you will be issued with a free discount card at that site for the remaining period of closure. This will give you to a reduced Aquafit class rate.

You will need to book in advance and provide a health commitment statement before attending the class.

Gym members

If you have an active gym membership you have the following options:

1. You can visit our Active North Yorkshire centres at Bedale, Northallerton, Stokesley and Thirsk and Sowerby for use of the swimming pool only, with no extra charge. You will need to give your name at reception, and confirmation of your active membership at Richmond. You will then be allowed free access for swimming.
2. Continue to use the gym facilities at Richmond.

If you choose the first option, your membership will not cover use of the gym or classes at our other leisure centres as the gym at Richmond Leisure and Wellbeing Hub is remaining open during the period of closure.

Casual swimming

You can visit our Active North Yorkshire centres at Bedale, Northallerton, Stokesley and Thirsk and Sowerby on a casual pay as you go basis. Our staff will discuss the most appropriate pricing options with you.

Café

The pool café is closed until further notice while we prepare for the removal of sealed asbestos. It is expected to reopen as soon as possible while the works continue.

Access the Dales mobility scooter

The mobility scooter that we host as part of the Access the Dales initiative is available as normal during the week but we are no longer able to offer it on weekends, apologies for the inconvenience.

The initiative aims to help locals and visitors access local sites and attractions. Find out more and book the scooter on the Access the Dales website.

Hire times are:

• Monday to Wednesday - 8am to 3:30pm
• Thursday and Friday - 8am to 2:30pm
• Weekends - not available