MEADOWLANDS in Tavistock re-opened to the public on New Year's Day, after the first major maintenance programme to be carried out at the pool for ten years was completed.
The pool closed on December 10 and since then, staff and contractors have been working hard to hit the re-opening deadline.
Rob Whitehead said such a big job was 'frightening' to undertake.
'There are so many things that can go wrong when you drain a pool down.
'It's taken a complete week to fill and heat and you can only bring the heat up by one degree every four hours,' said Mr Whitehead.
'It holds 111,000 gallons — that's a lot of water.'
But despite the three-week closure, Mr Whitehead said the most complicated part of the work will not even be noticed by the public.
The air handling unit in the plant room has been reconditioned, valves on the outside ride have been serviced and high level beams have been repainted and redecorated.
Areas used by the swimming club during competitions are having Astroturf laid and starting blocks have been installed.
Refurbishment work has been carried out in the changing area and the showers are being modified slightly, with one warmer shower and a cool shower — which will be clearly marked.
'Even on Christmas Day I was in here, but we've just got everything done in time,' said Mr Whitehead, who said he has employed local contractors where possible to carry out the work.
Steeltech and JR Construction have been involved on the technical side, while Plush Bohemia stripped down, cleaned and polished the furniture.
'I think it's important to use local companies where you can,' said Mr Whitehead.
Meadowlands will operate to a holiday schedule until Monday January 7, when the normal term-time sessions recommence.