Article: David Styles | Image: Brockwell Lido
Historic Pools of Britain has today launched a new individual membership scheme for those who want to see the nation’s heritage swimming baths and lidos preserved for future generations.
Following what it describes as a “revival of historic pools and lidos in recent years”, Historic Pools of Britain is strengthening its campaign to safeguard recreational facilities across the country by inviting the public to support its ongoing work.
Historic Pools of Britain was created to promote indoor and outdoor historic pools that are either open for public use or in need of restoration. This is motivated, the organisation states, by the “significant contribution” the sites make to Britain’s heritage and the roles they play within communities.
Discussing the work undertaken since launching in 2015, Historic Pools of Britain founder Gill Wright noted: “There are huge challenges, but the rewards make these challenges worth facing. The support of more members will enable us to make the voice of Historic Pools of Britain even louder.
“While there has been much positive news for historic pools, some of which we are seeing being restored and re-opened, this has not been the case for all.”
Until today, membership of the organisation has been made up of pools themselves and corporate members. The new annual membership – open to anyone – is £48 and includes a HPB pin badge, an invitation to two Historic Pools of Britain events, free swim vouchers, discounts, and tours from participating pools and lidos.
Participating pools
Historic pools who already work with the organisation include: Brockwell Lido, Hinksey Pool, Jubilee Park Woodhall Spa, Newcastle City Pool, Park Road Lido, Peterborough Lido, Sir Doug Ellis Woodcock Centre and Victoria Baths
“It’s wonderful to see the positive influence that having a collective voice for historic pools is achieving,” said Joe Stanhope, manager of Jubilee Park in Lincolnshire, an historic outdoor pool working with the organisation.
“We are all united in sharing experiences, insight, awareness and support for historic pools projects across the country, the value of which cannot be understated.”