Multi-million pound plans to redevelop or replace Shrewsbury’s Quarry pool will depend on external funding for it to go ahead, leisure chiefs have warned.

A masterplan for the long-term future of the public baths was drawn up in 2007 but no firm decisions have been made. Officials say they are aware action needs to be taken to safeguard its future after 2013.

They hope a new report will be published in the spring.

But Councillor Stephen Charmley, Shropshire Council cabinet member for leisure, said they must also approach bodies such as Advantage West Midlands and Sport England for help in funding any scheme.

He said: “I imagine it will be the early spring when we will put together a report and will set things in mot- ion. The basis of the report done previously is still very relevant but the costs inv-olved have to be rejigged slightly.

“Whichever way we go we are going to have to draw on external funding. Shropshire Council wouldn’t be able to spare that sort of cash because whichever way you look at it, it’s going to cost millions of pounds whether we repair it or build another one.”

The 2007 report suggested three options for the future of the pool, including a refurbishment costing about £9.6 million, a demolition and rebuild for about £7.75 million or building an out of town site at a cost of about £7.6 million.

In November 2008, Shrewsbury leisure managers completed a £250,000 revamp of the swimming centre, claiming it would safeguard its future for a further five years.

It was given an overhaul with a new gallery for spectators, better ventilation, automatic doors at the front of the building and enhanc- ed diving boards. But Mr Charmley said major investment was required.

He said: “We have had a leisure facility review for the whole of the county in the last few weeks which is going to Cabinet in January.

“That has highlighted that something has to happen at the Quarry because it’s not fit for purpose at present.”

In November the pool was closed for two days after a pipe carrying its main water supply collapsed. The problem caused water to leak across Victoria Avenue, which leads to the centre.

By Russell Roberts