Cabinet Approve Free Children's Swimming in Pontypridd Lido
Posted on Tuesday 31st July 2012
An artist's impression of the new Lido complex
Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s Cabinet Members have agreed to allow children and an accompanying adult free access to Pontypridd’s historic lido complex should the massive regeneration project go ahead.
Last week Heritage Lottery Fund announced that a massive £2.3 million is being invested in the lido – the only remaining one of its kind in Wales.
Rhondda Cynon Taf Council will use the funding, together with monies being sought from other funders, to restore and reopen the Grade II listed Lido complex with modern facilities to create a wonderful regional attraction as well as benefits for the local community.
Yesterday (Monday, July 30th) the Council’s Cabinet met to discuss the £6.2 million project, which hopes to attract visitors not only to the Lido, but to Pontypridd generally.
The plans will not only restore the lido but also reopen it as a heated facility with three pools for different uses: a main pool, an activities pool and an attractive semi-circular paddling pool for children.
There are also plans for a café, visitor’s centre, viewing gallery, new changing block and an exciting range of activities. Visitors can enjoy viewing this exciting facility from the comfort of the fully glazed café and viewing area.
The new paddling pool within the complex will offer better quality facilities for young children than the current one provides.
Leader of Rhondda Cynon Taf Council Cllr Anthony Christopher explained, “The Cabinet agreed that the new paddling pool within the lido complex will be free for children under 12 and an accompanying adult which will ensure free paddling pool facilities within the park will not only be retained but greatly improved too.
“This news is contrary to the unfounded allegations being made that a charge would be placed on those using the new facility while the current pool is free. Clearly this is not the case. Our proposals will ensure that no existing facilities will be lost and a new pool fit for the 21st century will be provided.
“The regeneration off the lido provides an opportunity to further strengthen the significant investment presently taking place in Pontypridd and act as a catalyst for further activity.
“Should the funding be made available, the lido will create a regional tourist attraction that welcomes thousands of visitors to Pontypridd which ultimately will benefit the local economy.
“It will also create jobs directly in the lido itself and act as a catalyst for further future regeneration activity in the town."