THREE Devon swimming pools are set to undergo repairs by a specialist underwater team.

The pools – in Exmouth, Honiton and Sidmouth – need various repairs which have been identified during routine surveys by the company.

Overnight work will involve maintenance including underwater grouting of pool tanks, replacement of some underwater tiles, repairing expansion joins, replacement of grilles and diffusers, and cleaning of balancing tanks.

“This is highly specialised work requiring a two-person diving team,” a spokesperson for East Devon District Council said.

“The three pools will continue to operate as usual and disruption will be kept to a minimum, as the work will be carried out overnight.”

East Devon District Council’s cabinet will be told about the extent of the works soon, and be told about an exemption to a common requirement for the council to seek more than three quotations.

That’s because the amount being spent is seen as relatively low, and securing more than three quotes for the type of work involved would be extremely difficult, if not impossible.

“Due to the specialist nature of the works, there is a limited number of contractors that can do the work, which involves teams of divers undertaking underwater repairs to the swimming pool tanks and accessing underwater confined spaces,” a report prepared for a cabinet meeting states.

“The current specialist contractor undertaking cyclical underwater compliance surveys has provided a quote for the works,” the report continues.

“The contractor is well familiar with each site and the work, which is a key consideration in terms of the health and safety risks involved.

“In addition, it will allow for the work to be done in a shorter timeframe, reducing costs. The quote for £46,344 is considered good value and represents a considerable saving on the allocated [£60,000] budget, approximately £13,000 saving.”