Waterside Community Trust gets £254,000 to refurbish pool changing rooms

Waterside Community Trust has landed a £254,000 government boost to refurbish extensively used and ageing changing facilities at the Ryde seafront swimming pool.

Starting early next year, the project will involve a total overhaul of the changing rooms, with all drainage, tiles, fixtures, and fittings replaced. The roof above the changing rooms is also set to be substituted.

Meanwhile, other initiatives are hoping to get underway sooner, such as the fitting of solar panels and updating the pool's heating system.

The charity will soon open tendering, as it seeks local businesses to deliver the high-quality, budget-constrained works.

Cllr Michael Lilley, Isle of Wight Council ward councillor for Ryde Appley and Elmfield, and on Ryde Town Council, said: "I am overjoyed that Waterside Community Pool has received funding to undertake major work that will improve facilities for local residents and visitors.

"Waterside is such an essential asset and its long-term sustainability is crucial to the health and mental well-being of the community. Well done!"

Todd Miller, general manager at Waterside Community Trust said: "The project to refurbish the swimming pool changing rooms will transform the customer experience and all the team at the centre can’t wait for the works to get underway.

"The environmental works taking place at the same time have also come at the right time, as we battle to overcome huge challenges with our energy cost."

Whilst the work is taking place the pool will remain open as much as possible, but there will be periods during the works where visitors will have to come swim ready for their sessions and change on poolside.

The works are expected to be completed by Spring 2025.