WORK began yesterday on a £250,000 refurbishment project at Derwent Pool, in Norton, North Yorkshire.

The project involves extensive improvements and re-modelling of the changing areas.

The new layout has been designed to improve facilities and make them easier to use.

Showers, toilets, changing cubicles, wall and floor finishes are to be renewed. In addition, the access footpath is being re-graded and a lift installed to improve access for disabled users.

The project, which is being managed by Ryedale District Council's property services unit in conjunction with architects, ADM Ltd, is due to be completed by February next year.

"It is anticipated that the pool and fitness suite will remain open to the public for most of the time," said David Summers, property services manager for Ryedale District Council.

"Unfortunately, the changing facilities will be limited. When complete, the improvements combined with the recently completed lifestyles fitness suite will provide first class facilities."