Huge £9.3m boost announced to transform St Annes pool and reopen Kirkham Baths
Fylde Council has recommended a record-breaking £9.3 million investment to overhaul swimming and leisure provision across the borough.
The proposal backed by Fylde Council’s Executive Committee would see St Annes Pool completely modernised while Kirkham Baths is brought back into use - subject to final approval at Full Council on January, Tuesday, 27.
Council leaders described the plan as the most ambitious leisure investment in Fylde’s history and said it aims to secure the long-term future of swimming provision for residents.
If approved, St Annes Pool will be transformed into a modern leisure hub featuring a new 50-station gym, spa facilities, an indoor splash pad, updated studios and a café.
Illustrated designs showcasing the upgraded layout were presented to the Executive Committee as part of the decision-making process.
Kirkham Baths, a much-loved community facility is set to reopen with a fully reconditioned pool, refurbished changing rooms and a new fitness suite.
Cllr Karen Buckley, Leader of Fylde Council, said: “This outcome reflects our determination to find a practical and sustainable answer to swimming provision in Fylde. We have worked through a complex set of challenges, assessed every viable option, and identified an approach that supports both sites.
“It represents a considered investment in facilities, providing stability for the future and ensures that our leisure facilities can continue to evolve in line with community needs.”
Cllr Jayne Nixon, Lead Member for Tourism, Leisure and Culture, said: “This investment follows year of work to ensure sustainable swimming provision in Fylde.
“The restoration of Kirkham Baths and modernisation of St Annes Pool will provide our communities with quality leisure facilities that support health and wellbeing for years to come.
The announcement follows December’s confirmation of Places Leisure as the preferred bidder for St Annes Pool with full details expected once councillors vote on the plans next week.
Andrew Snowden MP also welcomed the recommendation, calling it “a massive win for Fylde” and highlighting the years of campaigning to reopen Kirkham Baths.
Work at both sites will be subject to further building surveys and risk assessments before construction begins.