Britain's oldest public lido, the historic Cleveland Pools in Bath, is facing a critical recovery operation after severe flooding from the River Avon caused extensive damage to the recently restored Georgian swimming complex.
The Grade II* listed site, which only reopened in September 2023 following a monumental £9.3 million restoration project, now confronts fresh challenges as floodwaters submerged the entire facility, including the newly installed plant room containing essential filtration and heating systems.
A Setback for Heritage Conservation
Anna Baker, Chair of the Cleveland Pools Trust, expressed the team's devastation: "After overcoming numerous obstacles to bring this historic treasure back to life, witnessing the damage caused by the recent floods has been heart-wrenching for everyone involved in the project."
The flooding represents a significant setback for the heritage attraction, which had successfully transformed from a derelict site into a thriving community hub and tourist destination, celebrating Bath's rich swimming history dating back to 1815.
Assessment and Recovery Efforts Underway
Specialist teams are currently conducting thorough assessments of the damage, with particular concern focused on the mechanical and electrical systems that were submerged during the flooding incident.
"Our immediate priority is to fully understand the extent of the damage and develop a comprehensive recovery plan," Baker confirmed. "We're working closely with our contractors and insurance providers to navigate this challenging situation."
Community Support Remains Strong
Despite the setback, the Trust remains optimistic about the pools' future, buoyed by the overwhelming community support that characterised the original restoration campaign.
The Cleveland Pools had become a symbol of successful heritage regeneration, blending historical preservation with modern sustainable design, including a natural filtration system using plants to clean the water.
Looking Forward
While the full reopening timeline remains uncertain pending damage assessments, the Trust has reassured supporters that they remain committed to preserving this unique piece of British swimming heritage for future generations.
The incident highlights the increasing challenges facing heritage sites in flood-prone areas, particularly as climate change contributes to more frequent extreme weather events affecting Britain's historical landmarks.
