SIX weeks into a project to improve and protect the former Broomhill Pool in Ipswich, the town's mayor has been to see the work for himself.

SIX weeks into a project to improve and protect the former Broomhill Pool in Ipswich, the town's mayor has been to see the work for himself.

David Goldsmith and his wife Sue paid a weekend visit to the pool to see how the probation service is getting offenders to help improve the buildings of the Grade II listed structure.

They are undertaking a six-month project which involves clearing weeds, securing the buildings, cleaning off graffiti, and painting the buildings to help keep them water-tight.

Mark Ling from the Broomhill Trust which is working with the probation service said those on Community Payback were making a significant improvement to the pool.

Offenders spend several hours every Sunday working on the pool.

“We're absolutely delighted by what is happening here. They're improving the buildings both inside and out and generally helping to ensure the pool is well-maintained while we go through the process of building a business plan for the pool,” he said.

Safety improvements are also being undertaken - the diving boards are to be dismantled and this week the council has formally asked for planning permission to install a temporary cover to make sure the pool is not open to the elements.

And Mr Ling said that since closure seven years ago the basic infrastructure of the pool had remained sound.

He said; “The tank hasn't been leaking at all, very little water has gone - it is still in very good condition which is a very good point.

“Now that we are clearing and cleaning the buildings around the pool, Broomhill is looking very much better.”

The visit of the mayor and mayoress at the weekend gave a significant boost for everyone involved in the project.

“Now we are looking ahead to the next important meetings in September - it is good that the pool will be in a better condition by then,” said Mr Ling.

Click here to watch a video of the mayor's visit to Broomhill. Video: James Sharpe