'Sore toes' children's pool to close

The pool at the Energise centre in York will shut next Tuesday so investigators can examine non-slip tiles that are thought to have caused the problems.

The gym and pool in Acomb district were formerly called the Oaklands Leisure Centre.

They reopened at the end of last year after a 16-month refit costing more than 6m.

It is thought that the problems have arisen because of the tiles' abrasive nature, although York Council stressed that the non-slip material meets Sport England's design guidance and all UK standards.

Most children affected were aged between four and 12, but the council received fewer than 45 complaints – representing about three of every 2,000 users.

The children's pool is used by about 2,500 bathers each week.

The leisure spokeswoman for the council's opposition Labour group, Councillor Sonja Crisp, said: "It seems unclear at this stage what the problem is and that is a worry. Of course the main concern is for the health and safety of the city's young visitors who have been experiencing these problems, and the council needs to sort it out quickly.

The children's pool will be closed for about 10 days so it can be drained, inspected and then refilled. The main pool at the centre is not affected and will remain open.

Energise manager Paul Bickle said: "We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause and will aim to have the small pool open again as soon as possible."