The future of Penzance’s celebrated lido, Jubilee Pool, is now looking much brighter, thanks to the hard work, commitment and enthusiasm of a group of local partners.

Following the major structural damage the pool suffered during the storms last February, the prospects for this much loved facility looked bleak. However following the announcement that £1,950,000 from the Coastal Communities Fund had been secured as part of a wider project totalling £2,937,100, organisations have been working hard to enable work to begin on repairing the iconic structure.

Cornwall Council, the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Local Enterprise Partnership’s Regional Growth Fund, Tempus Leisure, the Friends of Jubilee Pool and Penzance Town Council are all providing significant match funding to support this project.

Regular steering group meetings are now taking place with representation from all stakeholders to progress the project.

A design team has been appointed, detailed structural survey work has begun and the construction phase is expected to start in April 2015. The essential structural works includes repairs to the significant storm damage as well as reinvigorating the pool so it can be more sustainable for the future, with geothermal development opportunities for the pool also being explored.

The pool is scheduled to reopen in Spring 2016. A programme of activity which aims to raise the profile of the pool and increase usage is also being developed which will help towards securing its financial viability.

Adam Paynter, Cornwall Council’s cabinet member for partnerships and chair of the project steering group, said “The Jubilee Pool is an iconic structure with national importance as one of the few remaining Art Deco seawater pools. It is much loved and well used by local people and visitors and this project and partnership will enable it to be better utilised year round and support a range of activities, including the provision of quality training and volunteering opportunities, festivals, events and sports”.

The Mayor of Penzance David Nebesnuick said “The Town Council had contributed a large proportion of its funds to ensure that this bid was strong. As Mayor I am pleased work has now commenced and look forward to the Pool returning next year to the Town Council's management so that it can once again become an integral part of the town's life.”

A major fundraising initiative by the Friends to raise £160,000 has included a number of high profile events throughout the summer, including art auctions, food festivals, concerts and music events at the poolside. More recently the Lido Winter Ball and a concert by comedian Jethro have seen capacity crowds and all proceeds going towards their goal.

Martin Nixon, Chair of the Friends said “We’ve been overwhelmed by the public support and generosity towards the pool this year. So far we’re halfway towards our fundraising target of £160,000 and I’m confident we can achieve this and thus play a significant part in restoring the pool to its former glory. It’s been very gratifying to see all stakeholders working in partnership towards a common goal- that of saving this unique facility. We all share the view that the pool will become a principal catalyst for the future regeneration of Penzance.’