THREE paddling pools have been saved from closure after earlier fears that new health and safety rules could scupper them.

The pools, in Harrogate's Valley Gardens, Borrage Green, Ripon and Bebra Gardens, Knaresborough, will re-open during the Spring Bank Holiday weekend.

The decision comes after Harrogate Borough Council held talks with the Health and Safety Executive.

A statement from the council said it had argued that guidelines for small outdoor paddling pools were too restrictive.

The executive had confirmed to the council's chief executive, Mick Walsh, that its guidance applying to paddling pools was clearly written for swimming pools. Particular care needed to be taken in its application to paddling pools not attached to swimming pools.

Earlier, it had been feared that guidelines from the safety executive could have forced the council to install filtration systems costing £220,000.

Plans to close the three pools caused an outcry and the council sought detailed clarification.

Pat Jones, cabinet member for leisure, said: "I am very pleased that children will continue to enjoy a very popular and traditional facility.

"Some councils have already closed their paddling pools, but we decided to find out more from the Health and Safety Executive people."