End of summer completion planned for Grange Lido restoration

Work is scheduled to resume on the Grange Lido restoration project at the beginning of April, with an anticipated completion around the end of the summer.

The project was previously halted last year due to the need for further assessment of the concrete repairs required for the Grade II-listed site. Additional repair works were identified following detailed inspections, leading to unforeseen delays.

The Westmorland and Furness Council, alongside contractor RH Irving Construction, confirmed the restart now that the winter weather has subsided and assessments are complete. Officials are exploring options for phased or partial opening before full completion, with updates to follow.

Cllr Jonathan Brook, Leader of Westmorland and Furness Council, expressed frustration over the delays caused by unexpected concrete issues. He said: "We appreciate the continued patience and ongoing support of the community while these essential works progress."

Cllr Helen Chaffey, Cabinet Member for Communities, Customer Services, Culture and Communications, highlighted the complexity of working with a historic coastal structure. She said: "I am delighted that the end is now in sight and can't wait for the lido to be open to the public after decades of it being lost to the community."

The £6.8 million project started in April 2023, aiming to temporarily infill the pool and create a multi-use public space. It protects the site's social and cultural heritage while allowing for potential future reopening of the pool. Recyclable and removable materials are being used for the infill.

Janet Carter, chair of trustees of Save Grange Lido, expressed encouragement after a recent site visit. She said: "We welcome the extensive work being carried out and look forward to further movement on site."

Completed works include upgrades to the central pavilion building, an accessible promenade entrance, and landscaped features. Structural and architectural works included concrete repairs to the diving board. Updates to the promenade involved sea wall repairs and the installation of a new playground area.

Failure to repurpose and repair the structure could have led to higher preservation costs.