A swimming pool has been forced to close after its water quality levels dipped below the recommended levels.

Lockmeadow Health Club in Barker Road, Maidstone, has shut its pool to customers.

A spokesman for the club said: ”We are sorry to report that, with immediate effect, the pool is closed due to technical issues.

“We are working to resolve these problems as a matter of urgency.

“We apologise for the inconvenience caused and ask that members stay tuned for updates.”

A spokesman for Serco Leisure, the operator of the complex, added: “Since we took over the venue on June 23, feedback has been consistent that the pool’s water quality levels have improved significantly.

“We achieve this by carrying out regular and robust testing of the essential chemical parameters within the pool water, including external microbiological tests.

“Our latest readings show the water quality is just outside that of recommended levels, so we have closed the pool to rebalance the system – which is not unusual in commercial swimming pools.

We expect to reopen within the next 24-48 hours, and we’d like to reassure members that safety measures are monitored, and the necessary action taken to preserve the safe water quality and ensure all other parts of the facility remain open as normal.”