'Celebrating the past' - Update on 'ambitious' £3m restoration of historic Kirkham Baths
“Look up next time you're passing!”
Fresh signs highlighting the history of Kirkham Baths have been installed as work continues on the ambitious £3 million restoration of the historic swimming pool.
Fylde Council has unveiled new banners on the site hoardings surrounding the Station Road building, featuring original architectural drawings that offer a glimpse into the baths' heritage while restoration work continues.
The authority said the displays celebrate the building's past as it works towards securing its future through what it has described as the most ambitious leisure investment in the council's history.
The restoration forms part of a wider investment in swimming facilities across the borough, with Fylde Council working in partnership with Places Leisure to bring Kirkham Baths back into use. The council is investing £3 million alongside its leisure partner to fully restore the historic building, which has remained closed since December 2021.
The baths were forced to shut after vital roof works were identified, prompting the closure of the facility while plans for its long-term future were developed. The restoration project forms part of a wider £9.3 million investment in swimming facilities at Kirkham Baths and St Annes Pool.
Earlier this year, the scheme reached a significant milestone after a provisional reopening date for Kirkham Baths was announced, bringing the long-awaited return of the facility a step closer. Places Leisure, part of the UK's leading social enterprise Places for People, has been appointed to operate both Kirkham Baths and St Annes Pool.
All the latest news and top stories from across Blackpool and the Fylde coast directly to your phone.
Never miss a thing. Click here to join
The organisation has assembled a team of specialist designers who are now actively developing the restoration plans for Kirkham Baths, with work continuing behind the scenes to transform the building while preserving its historic character.
The newly installed heritage banners aim to give passers-by an insight into the building's architectural history during the restoration process, showcasing original drawings of the baths and highlighting its significance within the local community.
Fylde Council said the investment will secure the future of the landmark building while creating modern leisure facilities for residents, ensuring Kirkham Baths can once again serve the town for generations to come.