Irvine's Portal leisure centre could close for as long as 10 WEEKS from next month as the problem-hit pools suffer yet more issues.

KA Leisure announced yesterday that the pool would close next week for five days for an investigation into the draining issues.

However the Times understands that the closure is likely to go on for around 10 weeks - from Tuesday, April 23 when the work will commence until the start of the school holidays around June 28.

It is understood anyone paying for swimming lessons via direct debit will be reimbursed.

One member of the Portal told the Times: “I am concerned about the impact on my child’s swimming progress, this is the second time this has happened and swimming is also often cancelled for galas and events.

"There is no effort made to re-schedule classes or make alternative arrangements. We chose the portal over other local pools or private options and these consistent issues means we are currently reconsidering our choice”

A spokesperson for KA leisure said: "Further to investigatory works carried out by North Ayrshire Council and the construction contractors last year into issues with the drainage channels around the swimming pools, there are further works scheduled to take place over the next couple of months. Works required are to be split into two periods of closure.

"Phase 1 on Monday, March 25 until Friday, March 29 inclusive (re-opening Sat 30th Mar). Works will include investigation and the determination of the scope of works and duration of a second phased closure. Phase 2, Tuesday, Arpril 23 to TBC. Duration will be finalised after Phase 1 findings and will involve completion of all remedial works.

"There will be further communication with customer groups once the scope of works has been finalised and detail of the full closure period is known to us.

"KA Leisure understands the frustration and disruption that this will cause to our customers and apologise in advance.

North Ayrshire Council chiefs said they could not say how long the second phase would take but admitted the hoped the "disruption will be complete by the summer holidays" - which begin almost a full 10 weeks from the start date in April.

A spokesman said: "The inspection will help us properly plan the works which will take place from April. 

"The works are being carried out to address an issue relating to the drainage channels at the perimeter of the pool. 

"These are essential works which will help us avoid any longer-term problems. 

"There is never an ideal time to close our facilities, but we are confident the disruption will be complete by the summer holidays. We will provide further 

updates when we have them 

"We apologise for any inconvenience.”