THE run-down swimming pool at the centre of a row over funding has been diagnosed with ‘concrete cancer’.

Haslingden Swimming Pool on East Bank Avenue needs ‘significant funding’ if it is to remain open after falling into disrepair.

A meeting of Rossendale Council’s cabinet delivered the news, discovered in a survey of the facility, to more than 200 protesters fighting to save plans for a new pool.

Council Leader, Coun Alyson Barnes said: “The KKP report shows the existing pool has concrete cancer and is in need of significant funding.

“But the council is having to make cuts of £2.7m, and clearly the plan to spend £3.2m on a new pool needs to be carefully looked at.

“There are some very complex issues and I am determined the implications of whatever decision we make are fully understood.”

A heated debate showed protesters were strongly against using money borrowed for the development on regenerating grotspot areas like Rawtenstall’s Valley Centre instead.

One resident said: “This decision will affect our children’s grandchildren.

"We need to stop thinking about bricks and mortar and remember it’s people that matter.”

The protesters arrived at the council chamber at Futures Park, Bacup, on Wednesday night and handed over an 8,049-signature petition.

Deputy leader Coun Sean Serridge said: “I am concerned about spending such a huge amount of money on a new pool, especially in light of all the cuts.”

Residents have until September 14 to tell the council whether they would like to see the money spent on regeneration, a new pool or paid back.

A final decision will be made on September 28.