AN INFLATABLE cover could be the answer to making Portishead’s open air pool an all-year-round facility.

AN INFLATABLE cover could be the answer to making Portishead’s open air pool an all-year-round facility.

Trustees have been looking at ways to extend the seafront lido’s season and are currently investigating the use of an airdome to protect swimmers from the elements during the winter months.

A transparent plastic cover costing in the region of �28,000 and inflated by an electric fan could be fitted over the pool in the colder months but removed for the summer season.

Trustee Roger Whitfield said: “It has always been our aim to increase the pool’s usage and covering it during the winter months is one of many options we are considering.

“We are also looking at the possibility of extending the season into November for our hardier users.”

If plans for the cover go ahead, the diving boards, which are part of the pool’s original features may need to be removed.

However, trustee Roger Whitfield says this should not be an issue with swimmers as modern day health and safety rules prevent the boards from being used anyway.

The plastic domes made by Surrey-based company, Covair Structures, have been used to cover other outdoor pools in the country and are also used as covers for sports pitches.

Pool bosses are planning visits to see some of the covers in operation before discussing the project again at their meeting tomorrow (Thurs).

Mr Whitfield added: “If we decide to press ahead with the dome idea, we will need to work out a way of financing it. Therefore we would really like to hear from anyone or any organisation interested in sponsoring the cover.”

Mr Whitfield can be contacted on 0781 2069773 or visit www.portisheadopenairpool.org.uk