Cleveland Pools wins Restoration Project of the Year
The Cleveland Pools Trust has won national recognition for ‘Restoration Project of the Year’ at the Museums + Heritage Awards as the open air pools move one step closer to opening for the summer season 2023.
Judges acknowledged the “grit and determination” of everyone involved in the 20-year campaign to save the Cleveland Pools, Britain’s oldest lido in Bath, Somerset. They also recognised the unique challenges of the site and the exceptional community support and involvement that has made this restoration project possible.
This prestigious award was presented to some of the team at the annual awards ceremony that celebrates excellence in the heritage sector earlier this week. “What is particularly wonderful about the Museums + Heritage Awards is the vast and varied range of organisations represented on our shortlist – from large, national museums to small, local heritage organisations and everything in between,” said Anna Preedy, Director of Museums + Heritage Awards. “The Awards provide a rare opportunity to recognise and celebrate the determined, confident, and creative work of our extraordinary sector and are the ultimate stamp of approval!”
A challenging few months, but the summer season is in sight
This recognition follows a challenging few months for the Cleveland Pools after winter floods and ongoing contractual negotiations have stalled their planned opening. However, the good news is that works to install the pontoon and Water Source Heat pump, that will heat the pool water, will start in the week commencing 15 May 2023.
The pontoon will enable visitors to access the site via the river and reinforces the Trust’s commitment to improving access for the community while encouraging the use of greener travel options. This work means the pools will be able to open for warm water swimming later this year.
‘Cleveland Pools welcomes swimmers for the first time in 40 years’, read our report on the opening of the Cleveland Pools. The Cleveland Pools restoration project is supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund. Cleveland Pools hope to open for the summer season 2023, with tickets for swimming costing between £4.50-£6. Find out more.
Jo Tinsley
Jo is the Gear Editor for Outdoor Swimmer and also writes news and features for the website. A keen open water swimmer and long-distance walker, she loves seeking out lakes and lidos close to her home in the Mendip Hills, Somerset. She is the author of The Slow Traveller, editor and founder of independent magazine, Ernest, and has previously tested outdoor clothing and kit for BBC Countryfile Magazine, BBC Focus and Ernest Journal.
