Cleveland Pools Trust wins national award ahead of summer season

Work to restore the historic Cleveland Pools in Bath has been recognised with a prestigious accolade at the Museums and Heritage Awards.

An illustration of the Cleveland Pools site | Image © Ben Wu-Holmes

The Cleveland Pools Trust won ‘Restoration project of the Year’ at the awards, ahead of its opening for the 2023 summer season.

The award was presented to some of the project’s team at the annual ceremony which celebrates excellence in the heritage sector.

The judges acknowledged the ‘grit and determination’ of everyone involved in the 20-year campaign to save the pools.

They also recognised the unique challenges of the site and the community support and involvement that has made this restoration project possible.

Anna Preedy, Director of Museums + Heritage Awards commented: “What is particularly wonderful about the Museums + Heritage Awards is the vast and varied range of organisations represented on our shortlist – from large, national museums to small, local heritage organisations and everything in between.

“The Awards provide a rare opportunity to recognise and celebrate the determined, confident, and creative work of our extraordinary sector and are the ultimate stamp of approval!”

The accolade follows a challenging few months for the Cleveland Pools after winter floods and ongoing contractual negotiations but coincides with news that works to install the pontoon and Water Source Heat pump, which will heat the pool water, will start this week.

The pontoon will enable visitors to access the site via the river, encouraging the use of greener travel options.

This latest phase of work means the pools will be able to open for warm water swimming later this year.

Tickets for swimming will cost between £4.50 – £6.

For more information, visit www.clevelandpools.org.uk.