The Kenilworth Lido Campaign Group has said it is "disappointed" that contracts have now been signed for the town's swimming pools to be knocked down and rebuilt.

Warwick District Council announced on Thursday that it has reached an agreement with AR Demolition Ltd to demolish the current facilities and with Kier to construct the new pools.

The group, which has continued to call on WDC to rethink the scheme, said it was a "sad day for the town" and meant residents would now be "denied any provision for accessible public outdoor pool swimming within the district".

The group said: "With innovative councils such as Hull, Plymouth and Howarth investing millions in the development and restoration of outdoor pools it seems a backward step to end the long history of safe outdoor swimming in Kenilworth, with all the health and wellbeing benefits it brings.

"The group maintain that a modern lido in Abbey Fields, alongside a new indoor pool would cost less financially and environmentally than WDC's current plans to build two indoor pools. 

"Without a large two pool building the cost of materials would be less and construction costs would be lower. 

"A smaller building to heat, light and maintain would bring down ongoing bills as well as reducing the carbon footprint. The challenge of managing humidity would also be reduced."

With contracts now signed, fencing and hoarding will be put up on site before demolition work begins.

There will also be further archaeological investigations, following the discovery of the remains of a medieval wall last month.

The council has also confirmed that the children's playground and tennis courts will be closed during the works, although the play area will remain open at weekends for the entirety of the project.

The path from Bridge Street and the small footbridge next to the swimming pool will be closed during the work.

A temporary path is being created over the duck feeding platform in Abbey Fields to allow access from High Street to Abbey Hill, which will open when the hoarding is assembled.

Cllr Liam Bartlett commented: "Whilst we regret the delay in starting work, it was crucial that we did not compromise on the quality or value for money to council taxpayers for these new facilities.

"I am therefore delighted to report that contracts are now signed, allowing us to provide the district's residents with two wonderful swimming pools at Abbey Fields, with additional year-round pool space, sun-terrace and café, which is in keeping with its beautiful backdrop."

"It is my intention to offer local taxpayers as much transparency as possible over the revised project costs and will be providing a council committee with a comprehensive report at the earliest opportunity."