Westmorland council to finish Grade II-listed lido and prom revamp

This project, undertaken by Westmorland and Furness Council, is aimed at preserving the derelict Grade II-listed site’s 'immense' social and cultural heritage.

Construction work began in April last year.

Work is set to be completed this summer (Image: Westmorland and Furness Council)

Work includes creating a new multi-use public space through a temporary infill to the lido pool.

This approach ensures the newly refurbished site remains open to the public while keeping a future possibility of reactivating the pool.

The infill material is intended to be recyclable and removable to align with future plans.

Councillor Jonathan Brook, leader of Westmorland and Furness Council, and Councillor Peter Thornton, cabinet member for highways and assets, recently visited the site with senior officers to monitor the project's progress.

Commenting on the development, Cllr Brook said: "It was fantastic to see at first hand the progress being made at the lido and on the promenade and I can't wait to see the site open to the public again."

The project will protect the Grade II-listed site (Image: Westmorland and Furness Council)

Main contractors RH Irving Construction kick-started the restoration process in May last year.

The work involved clearing the site, carrying out demolition works, and initiating sea wall repairs.

Additionally, the firm installed a new drainage system and began constructing steps for the north and south buildings.

In March, the replacement of existing concrete terraces will take place.

This will be accompanied by completing the new water main installation, preparatory work for a new electric supply, and the start of pool drainage works.

View of the diving platform from the central pavilion (Image: Westmorland and Furness Council)

Cllr Thornton emphasized the complexity of the project, stating: "This has been a long-running and highly-complex project on an iconic structure, made necessary due to the need to take urgent action to preserve the listed lido structure and not leave future administrations liable for even greater costs."

He expressed his excitement for the upcoming summer when the revitalised lido and prom will serve as key jewels in Westmorland and Furness's heritage crown.

Mark Moodycliffe, managing director at RH Irving Construction, said: "I am particularly proud of the ongoing commitment and efforts of our team and our sub-contractors in managing and delivering what is a complex and challenging project."

Additionally, the renovation project includes the improvement of connectivity works linking the promenade to the town, the introduction of public realm furniture, signage improvements, railing adjustments, and a new playground area.

The playground, which opened last July, includes modern, inclusive play equipment for children aged six months up to 15 years old. It has equipment to allow for those with additional mobility needs to be able to enjoy their time in the park.

Artist's impression of what the completed lido and prom will look like (Image: Westmorland and Furness Council)

Built in 1932, the lido is one of the last four remaining listed coastal lidos in England and carries a rich legacy.

It remained functional for 61 years until its shutdown in 1993 due to low usage and escalating operational and repair costs.

Upon completion this summer, Grange residents and visitors will once again witness the Grade II-listed site's social and cultural significance.

The project aims to weave together past heritage with the present to weave a refreshing narrative for the future.