National Lottery pays towards restoration of Withington Baths

Withington Baths and Leisure Centre has received initial National Lottery support of almost £82,000 to restore the building to its former Edwardian glory.

Made possible by National Lottery players, the project is a major milestone in the restoration of the building and ensuring the sustainability of this South Manchester facility long into the future.

Development funding of £81,700 has been awarded by the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF), which will enable the baths to fully scope the extent of restoration needed to restore the Edwardian roof.

It will also enable the baths to design programmes and activities to educate both members and visitors about the heritage of the baths using photos, stories and personal accounts of how it has impacted on the lives of Manchester residents.

The baths will be looking for members of the public to contribute their memories and photos to support the development of the educational programmes.

They will also be looking for volunteers to carry out research and get involved in delivering heritage events to primary schools, local residents and local workers.

The building is a focal point for the local community and is currently used by more than 2,000 members for swimming, fitness and wellbeing.

It is also used by community groups for a variety of meetings and activities.

Built in 1911, the facilities are the last working Edwardian Baths in Manchester and famous for being the first public baths in the city to allow men and women to bathe together.

Paul Smith, director of Withington Baths and Leisure Centre, said: “We’re delighted that we’ve received this support thanks to National Lottery players.

“It’s a massive step that moves us closer to restoring the baths and making it the best place to swim and work out in Manchester.

“Since the Withington community came together in 2013 to save the building from closure the team at the baths have worked tirelessly to create a sustainable leisure facility for everyone.

“This investment puts us on the journey to restore the building, as well as educating our members and visitors about the fascinating history of the baths.”