But plans were abandoned owing to the outbreak of war. By the early 1960s the idea was back in the agenda yet council chiefs were divided with many wanting smaller pools to be built instead. The scheme eventually received the green light and was opened in September 1967. These rarely-seen photos help tell the controversial story of its 40 year on-off relationship with Leeds and its residents. CHANGING LEEDS: Leeds Inner Ring Road |Corn Exchange | City Square | Vicar Lane | Dark Arches LOVE LEEDS? LOVE NOSTALGIA? Join the Leeds Retro facebook group
7. September 1967
The public was quick to criticise. "The building is badly sited, difficult to approach by car and dangerous for kiddies attending during rush hours. I cannot get my clothes into a wire basket and would prefer a full length locker."
8. January 1968
The Turkish and remedial baths were open to the public for the first time. Pictured are the first customers enjoying the new facilities.
9. March 1968
The 1,200 seater venue was hailed as one of just two Olympic size pools in the North. Yet the signs were ominous when gale force winds almost ripped off the futuristic copper roof.
10. August 1969
Worse still, the pool wasn't even fit for the Olympics. Legend has it that it was a couple of inches too short. In fact it was slightly too narrow for eight lane Olympic standards.
11. August 1973
Rows of empty seats during the European Youth Swimming Championships.
12. 1970s
Its innovative design was by John Poulson. Council chiefs claimed more than 278,000 pounds from the bankrupt architect for design flaws in the pool.