Work has started to restore the oldest lido in Britain after a 17-year campaign to save the Grade II listed site.
Bath-based Cleveland Pools, which was built in 1815, is expected to open to swimmers in the summer of 2022 for the first time since 1984.
Among the work to be carried out is the restoration of two pools – the crescent-shaped main pool for adults and a smaller, shallower pool for children.
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There will also be refurbishment of the largely unaltered Grade II listed buildings, with the central cottage being turned into a main entrance and pay point, and the first floor becoming a caretaker’s flat.
The scheme is expected to cost more than £8m for the period between 2019 and 2025, with Cleveland Pools Trust - the organisation behind the lido - needing to raise a further £400,000 over the next 18 months to deliver the project in full.
Work on the site was due to start in March last year, but the pandemic to led to delays and increased costs. In February, Cleveland Pools Trust received £290,000 from the Government’s Culture Recovery Fund.
Extra funding is also being provided by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, the DCMS Capital Kickstart Fund, and emergency grant aid from Historic England.
Anna Baker, project director for Cleveland Pools Trust said: “After 17 years of community action, starting construction work is a hugely significant moment which we’re all so happy to see."
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Bristol-based construction firm Beard is leading the work on the project, which will pose some significant engineering challenges as the site is only accessible to vehicles by river.
Machinery, building materials and equipment required to carry out the major refurbishment work on-site will have to be loaded up at the nearby Avon Rugby Club, which is being used as a base, and carried up-river on a pontoon pushed by a barge fitted out for the purpose.
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Mark Tregelles, Beard project manager said there had been some "unusual logistical challenges" accessing the site and starting the job.
He said: “We recognise how culturally significant this development is for the community, and wider region, not only as a Grade II listed building but also as a space for the community to use and enjoy when it’s complete.
"We are working closely with the Cleveland Pools Trust to realise their vision to make it an accessible and fun place to be for all users, and also to reflect the rich history behind the nationally important site."
Plans for refurbishment of Cleveland Pools
- Restoration of two pools – the crescent shaped main pool for adults and competent swimmers and a smaller, shallower pool for children
- Restoration of the largely unaltered Grade II listed buildings. Central cottage restored for the main entrance and pay point, first floor to become a caretaker’s flat
- Terrace seating area with shelter from sun or rain
- New toilets and showers
- Refreshment kiosk
- New river pontoon for access via boat services to Pulteney Bridge
- Improved disabled access including an electric buggy to manage the steep entry slope
- Heritage exhibition & learning space within the site