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
13. August 1973
These potted conifers outside the International Pool camouflaged roadworks necessary for the construction of the Leeds inner ring road.
14. May 1976
Just weeks after the concourse between Westgate Police Station and the International Pool was landscaped workmen had to dig it up. The Post Office needed access to manholes under the turf.
15. January 1978
By the end of the 1970s the ruling Conservative councillors suggested selling the pool after it lost more than 400,000 pounds in a year.
16. May 1985
It was announced the junior pool was to close in the autumn. The pool was to be covered with a sprung floor for use by the Yorkshire Dance Centre.
17. July 1988
Lean times... Competitors set off in the men's 200m backstroke at the International Pool. Photo: Bruce Greer
18. 1993
Councillors suggested once again selling the International Pool so they could fund a new sports complex elsewhere in the city.