THERE was a time when we took public libraries for granted. When it would be unthinkable that the local swimming pool was out of bounds for a Saturday morning swim.

In this age of austerity measures, though, nothing is sacrosanct, so we fully understand the concerns expressed recently by Yearsley Pool Action Group who have long fought to keep the facility open.

Their worries resurfaced again as news came that the council was progressing work on a new 8,000 seater stadium and pool in Huntington.

Now, though, it seems Labour has moved to allay the groups fears, insisting that it has no plans for closure.

We are glad to hear it. Yearsley Pool is an historic and valuable asset in York and the city would be the worse for its loss.

That said, there will be a review of the service six months before the Huntington site opens, so we’re not out of the woods yet.

It’s understandable that this review will make people feel uneasy. Perhaps talks between the support groups and the council might help to reassure all and further safeguard the pool’s future.