of Britain association.
Historic Pools of Britain, the association launched in September to support the nation’s heritage swimming baths and lidos, is going from strength to strength, having recently signed up its 10th member pool.
Bramley Baths in Leeds is the latest water leisure venue to become part of the association, and joins nine other heritage pools across the country including Broomhill Pool in Ipswich, Cleveland Pool in Bath, Droitwich Spa in Worcestershire, Jubilee Park and Woodhall Spa in Lincolnshire, Mount Baths in Northamptonshire, The Sir Doug Ellis Woodcock Street Sports Centre in Birmingham, Victoria Baths in Manchester,Weston Baths Club in Glasgow and Yearsley Pool in York.
The association, which celebrates heritage pools and their contribution to the nation’s social and architectural history was also presented with the Special Achievement Award at the UK Pool & Spa Awards in November.
Initially the membership will benefit from networking, campaigning and lobbying, the potential for joint funding applications and PR and marketing support at regional and national levels. Its next move is to launch a crowd funding campaign for a dedicated Historic Pools of Britain website.
“These are pools that are at different stages of their journeys to save, restore and operate them,” says Gill Wright who has helped to found Historic Pools of Britain and has led the campaign for Manchester’s water palace, Victoria Baths for the past 20 years.
“Each recognise the value of having a national profile and awareness through a sustained and organised campaign, to capitalise on the massive public support for these buildings. Crucially though, it is the support that comes with working together and sharing experiences that will be the greatest advantage of all.”
