Fylde Council has taken a step towards the revival of Kirkham Baths, approving £150,000 of essential works to safeguard the building and prepare it for reinstatement.
The funding, agreed last month, will enable urgent safety and preservation measures at the site, which the Council acquired from the YMCA earlier this year. These works will prevent further deterioration and provide the detailed surveys needed to shape future investment decisions.
The contract has been awarded to Warden Construction Ltd, with works beginning in early 2026. The programme includes asbestos removal, environmental cleaning, drainage and structural surveys, and the removal of water-damaged materials. This will reduce the risk of escalating costs and ensure the building is ready for redevelopment.
Councillor Karen Buckley, Leader of Fylde Council, said: “This investment is not just about holding the line — it is about preparing Kirkham Baths for a new chapter. We are determined to do all we can to bring swimming back to rural Fylde, and these enabling works are a vital step in that journey.
“Alongside our finance team, we are modelling different investment options and working with our MP Andrew Snowden to secure wider government interest in terms of funding.
‘’I have also written to Lancashire County Council to seek financial assistance in light of their duty towards public health. We have a track record of working in partnership with Lancashire County Council and there is a real opportunity to work together on this vitally important project.
“We must make decisions now, while we can still do so in the best interests of Fylde.”
Councillor Jayne Nixon, Lead Member for Tourism, Leisure and Culture, added: “We know how much Kirkham Baths means to local residents.
‘’These works will give us the clarity we need to develop the best possible solution for the community. We are committed to exploring every avenue to deliver quality leisure facilities for our Kirkham and rural communities.”
The Council continues to plan for long term swimming provision across the borough, with procurement for a new operator at St Annes progressing towards an appointment from April 2026.
While no decisions have been made on future operations at Kirkham, its inclusion in the process reflects our commitment to re-open Kirkham Baths subject to funding becoming available.
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