PROBLEMS with the hot water system at Loughton Leisure Centre have landed Epping Forest District Council with a £46,000 bill.

While private company SLM operates and manages the Traps Hill leisure centre, an independent inspection has concluded that the problem lies with the orginal design and therefore the cost of repairs lies with the council.

The authority has received "many" complaints about the temperature of water in the showers.

In addition, temperature issues in the plant room have led to failings with other equipment which has health and safety implications or has prevented the use of a number of the water features at the pool.