Mixed views pour in as readers dive in for discussion on our swimming baths return

The John Smith swimming pool in Airdrie finally reopened its doors on Monday after the completion of eight months of extensive repair work.

A total of £400,000 has been spent on improving the leisure facility with the pool tank, changing village, showers, foyer, reception and gymnasium all given a makeover.

News that the popular facility is back up and running went down well with Advertiser Facebook reader Carol Mitchell: “Brilliant. It will be nice to have a swim.”

Susan Smith added: “Can finally get back to aerobic classes.”

Zeita Gilfillan highlighted: “Finally the kids have something to do in the summer holidays.”

Ann Cairns agreed: “Just in time for the holidays.”

Laney Stevenson welcomed the reopening but won’t be bound for a visit to the pool: “Good to see it opening back up, but I’m definitely going to stay where I am for the gym and swimming.”

Stevie Spiers felt the six-figure sum used to repair the baths could’ve been better spent: “Waste of council money. There is a better place in Coatbridge. They should put on free buses a couple of times a day, there and back, for Airdrie folk to get splashing.”

Iain Moffat commented: “It’s a horribly designed pool. What idiot thought it was a good idea to put the shallow end away at the far end of the pool?”

Meanwhile, our Facebook readers reacted well to the news Sir Elton John’s crew hailed the superstar’s Airdrie gig as having “the best atmosphere” of any of the musical icon’s 100 dates of his world tour.

Dan Lee posted: “I was part of the stage crew and the place was bouncing.”

Carol Allison said: “Was a fantastic night with a brilliant atmosphere.”

Charelle Miller added: “Fantastic night. I didn’t sit down the whole time.”

Senga Jones had the highest praise for the extravaganza: “Best concert ever!”

Repairs completed The John Smith pool in Airdrie was closed for eight months