Work has started on the £6.3m transformation of a derelict lido in Pontypridd, Wales, which will be transformed into a state-of-the-art swimming facility.
The grade-II listed lido was originally built in 1927 and was forced to close in 1991 after it fell into a state of disrepair. Now, more than 20 years later it will be reborn, bringing in a forecasted tens of thousands of people into the town every year.
The new outdoor facility would be open around four to five months of the year and would include three heated pools, changing blocks and a new café. In addition the redevelopment would see a new play area built and feature an exhibition on the history of the lido.
"The refurbished lido will create a regional tourist attraction bringing tens of thousands of visitors to Pontypridd,” said Rhondda Cynon Taf council leader Anthony Christopher. "It will also create jobs directly in the lido itself, and have economic benefits for local businesses."
The complex was originally the training pool for Jenny James, the first woman to swim the English Channel in 1951.
The project is receiving £3m in funding through the Welsh government, £2.3m from the Heritage Lottery Fund, £900,000 from Rhondda Cynon Taf council, and £100,000 from Welsh heritage body Cadw. The work is due to be completed in summer 2015.
