'Much-loved' lido's restoration work to restart

3 hours ago

Evie LakeNorth East and Cumbria

News image — The Grange-over-Sands lido closed in 1993 after falling into disrepair

Westmorland and Furness Council An image of an old art deco Lido building sitting across the murky green water of the lido pool. The building has rows of step seating leading from either side. The water has plants growing in it. — The Grange-over-Sands lido closed in 1993 after falling into disrepair

Work is due to restart on a "much-loved" lido after its renovation was delayed because of concrete problems.

The restoration of the Grade II-listed site at Grange-over-Sands, in Cumbria, began in 2023 and was expected to last 14 months, but the 2024 reopening was postponed.

Additional repair works had been identified following inspections.

Westmorland and Furness Council said work was set to begin again in April with the aim of completing the project around the end of summer.

The lido closed in 1993 after falling into disrepair.

Work on the £6.8m Grange Lido and Promenade project began in April 2023 with the aim of reopening the lido site with a temporary infill of the pool, creating a new multi-use public space from what had become a derelict and deteriorating Grade-II listed site.

The local authority said it was exploring whether a phased or partial opening would be possible ahead of full completion.

Westmorland and Furness Council A group of 12 people standing in front of a large brick building with large windows. They are all looking into the camera and smiling and wearing various coloured coats and hats. — Save Grange Lido said the work already undertaken had been "encouraging"

Leader of Westmorland and Furness Council, Liberal Democrat councillor Jonathan Brook, said: "It has been frustrating for everybody interested in the future of the lido that the unexpected discovery of issues regarding the concrete repairs has delayed opening up this significant and unique asset to the public."

Some repairs have already been carried out, including strategic concrete repairs to the diving board structure.

A new play area has also been installed.

Janet Carter, chair of trustees of Save Grange Lido, said it had been "encouraging to see the work already undertaken to protect the site".

"Like many people, Save Grange Lido is keen to see further movement on site but recognises the scale of the work needed to protect and secure this much-loved local landmark," she said.