Group’s vision for pool development is revealed (From Ilkley Gazette)
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Images released showing Art Deco-design building as fundraising plan is drawn up
9:47am Thursday 27th September 2012 in News By Amanda Greaves
How the pool could look under plans drawn up by the Ilkley Pool Group. Picture from Roost Architects
The group behind plans for a multi-million pound transformation of a town’s swimming facilities have released images of their vision.
The Ilkley Pool Group is currently developing a fundraising plan and drawing up proposals for a Heritage Lottery bid for the redevelopment of Ilkley Pool and Lido.
Early suggestions said the project could cost £10 million for a refurbishment and rebuild of the ageing Bradford Council-owned facilities, which have been described as “out of date” and “architectural vandalism” by Richard Threlfall, who is leading the pool group’s efforts.
Talks between Ilkley Pool Group and the council are progressing well and it is hoped funding bids can be submitted soon.
The pool group is also trying to create a library of pool and lido memories and stories, from its 80-year history.
The group is hoping people living in the town, and further afield, will have old photographs, videos or tales about the current pool and lido.
The artist impressions show the new pool facilities have been styled in an Art Deco manner to complement the lido site.
They include spectator seating for competitions and events, as well as an improved cafe and restaurant area, complete with viewing windows.
Another feature includes an imposing art deco-style circular staircase to the upper level of the new facility.
Last night, a spokesman for the council confirmed discussions with the pool group are continuing.
"The Ilkley Pool Group are still looking at options around the future of the Ilkley Lido and Pool,” the spokesman said.
Meanwhile, despite the poor summer weather, the spokesman also confirmed visitor numbers at the lido are slightly improved this year.
They are up one per cent on the previous year.
For more details about the Ilkley Pool Group and plans for the lido and pool, go to ilkleypoolgroup.org or e-mail info@ilkleypoolgroup.org.
