Kirkham pool could reopen after council back plans to buy it

Thursday, 20 March 2025 10:03

By Central Radio News

Kirkham swimming pool could reopen after Fylde Council pledged money to repair it following storm damage.

The facility suffered significant structural damage during Storm Arwen in December 2021 and has been shut ever since.

Following a review of the pool's condition, Fylde Council's executive committee agreed to allocate £75,000 in annual funding to secure and monitor the site.

An additional £150,000 capital investment from reserves has also been approved to fund temporary holding, security and preservation works once the pool is formally transferred from current owners YMCA.

The decision follows a Notice of Motion to full Council in October 2023 and extensive consultation with the community and stakeholders regarding swimming provision in the area.

The Council will now explore various funding options to minimise the period the facility remains vacant and have already submitted an Expression of Interest to the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

Councillor Jayne Nixon, Lead Member for Tourism, Leisure and Culture, said: “This acquisition demonstrates our commitment to ensuring swimming provision remains accessible to residents across rural Fylde. While we recognise the challenges ahead, securing this facility is the first critical step in restoring this important community asset.

“If successful, our Expression of Interest to the National Lottery Heritage Fund will prove vital in accelerating the restoration process and bringing this beloved pool back to life for our community.”

The recommendations will be presented to full Council for final approval, with the formal transfer of the facility expected to follow shortly after.