A burst pipe has caused a health club’s swimming pool to shut for 12 weeks.

Nuffield Health’s Tunbridge Wells fitness and wellbeing gym found a leak earlier this month and engineers have confirmed the damage is more serious than first thought.

It is estimated there will be several weeks of digging before the burst pipe can be replaced.

A notice sent to members said: “Thank you for your patience while we reviewed the full extent of the damage, following the sudden closure of our pool last Thursday.

“We would like to sincerely apologise for the inconvenience this has caused you since the closure.

“Following an investigation, our team of engineers have now confirmed that the pipework damage is more serious than initially thought. Much of the pipework is set in concrete and difficult to access, which means the work will take several weeks digging before we are able to replace the burst pipe.

“Due to the nature of the damage and improvements required, the work is estimated to take 12 weeks to complete. As a result, we expect to re-open our brand new poolside facility early December.”

However, the gym confirmed they are making the most of a bad situation and are taking the opportunity to upgrade the facilities.

A message on the gym’s Facebook page said: “While the pool is closed, we have decided to take this opportunity to complete a full refurbishment of the pool and spa facilities starting Monday, September 24.

“This will include two new jacuzzis, new sauna and steam room; retiling of the floors and walls around the pool area and Jacuzzi.

“We understand that the sudden removal of our pool facilties will impact many of our members.

“We are happy to freeze your membership for part or all of the downtime whilst the poolside is closed.

“For members enrolled in our swim school, our Swim Manager will be liaising with you directly to discuss option available.”