Jubilee Pool, an iconic feature of the Penzance seafront for 80 years, is undergoing a major renovation which will include essential structural improvements, as well as repairs required following significant damage suffered during last winter's storms.

Works to be completed include anchoring the pool floor to the rock bed, repairs to external wall and structure, stabilisation and repairs to terraces and changing rooms, replacement of paving and hand railings, upgrading the pool drainage system and electrical systems

The renovation work is being carried out by Cormac and the pool is scheduled to open in spring 2016. Alongside the renovation works there will also be a number of activities arranged to promote and create a sustainable future for the pool.

The Coastal Communities Fund granted Cornwall Council £1.95m as part of a project totalling £2.94m. Match funding has also been provided by Cornwall Council, Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Local Enterprise Partnership’s Regional Growth Fund, Tempus Leisure, the Friends of Jubilee Pool, and Penzance Town Council.

Adam Paynter, Cornwall Council’s cabinet member for resources and chair of the project steering group, said: “Cornwall Council welcomes the fact that we have reached this long awaited milestone and works have begun at Jubilee Pool. This project is a celebration of the spirit of collaboration and we look forward to continuing to work closely with our partners in the future.”

The mayor of Penzance David Nebesnuick added: “I am delighted that the major work has begun at the Jubilee Pool and I look forward to the pool being returned to its former glory as an outstanding art deco structure.”

Martin Nixon, chair of the friends, said: “We are delighted that this project is finally underway and are very grateful to all those who have contributed to our fundraising efforts, helping to contribute to the restoration of the pool and in turn creating a sustainable future for this much loved amenity.”

Richard Allen, director of business development for Tempus Leisure, said: “Tempus is delighted to support the project, working with Cornwall Council, Penzance Town Council and our other partners to transform this iconic facility.

"The development provides an exciting opportunity to build upon our previous success at the pool and really show how it can be managed as a sustainable sporting and cultural venue.”

Ian Newby, senior project manager for Cormac said: “Cormac are really excited to be involved in this project which brings many engineering challenges."

Anyone who would like to find out more about Jubilee Pool can visit the Friends of Jubilee Pool website www.jubileepool.co.uk or follow Cormac on Facebook for regular project updates.