SWIMMERS could be left high and dry if crumbling Elland Baths does not get £180,000 worth of urgent repairs.

Massive work needs to be done on the baths, at Town Hall Street, including an estimated £47,500 on improvements to fire safety.

Calderdale councillors will meet on November 1 to decide whether to spend the money to improve the pool or to close it down.

The condition of the baths has been deteriorating for some years and the poolside floor is currently held up by props.

In August cracking and minor movement of the building was discovered and an investigation into the state of the baths revealed major problems.

Council officers are now recommending the money is spent to make sure the 79,000 visitors per year are not left without a pool.

Clr Michael Clarke is confident the baths will be saved, saying: "It is very important that Elland Baths are not closed.

"The problem we have is that this building is Victorian and not really up to modern standards.

"New legislation is the main reason a lot of money needs to be spent on aspects such as fire safety. What was considered safe years ago is no longer acceptable.

"There is also a major problem with disabled access. Again this is because of a change in legislation, a good one, but one that will be very expensive.

"I think the baths have to stay open. Especially with the difficulties faced by Brighouse Baths.

"The money is in the budget and should be used to keep the baths open."

Schools including Greetland Primary, in Rochdale Road, use the pool for swimming lessons and would be forced to travel further if it was to close.

Clr Amanda Byrne, cabinet member for community services, said:

"Over the coming months we will be carrying out a review of our swimming facilities, taking stock of all the pools in the borough, to ensure the safe- ty and enjoyment of the public is not compromised, and that our schools can continue to teach children to swim in good quality facilities."