Fundraiser launched to renovate Weardale lido in Stanhope

Local businesses and residents are being urged to support plans to refurbish Weardale’s heated lido in Stanhope, County Durham, after it closed in 2023 due to an electrical failure. 

The charity behind the project said it is seeking help from companies and tradespeople to restore and modernise the outdoor facility. 

Earlier this year, it agreed a 30-year lease for the pool, which first opened in 1974. 

Sam Rushworth MP (right) with members of the campaign group outside the open-air pool. (Image: Weardale Open Air Swimming Pool Refurbishment Project)

Proposed works include structural repairs, resurfacing, landscaping and the installation of new equipment, alongside improvements to surrounding amenities.

It is hoped the refurbishment will help preserve the pool’s heritage. 

Following a recent meeting with Bishop Auckland MP Sam Rushworth, campaigners said the Labour representative had backed their plans.

Dr Steve Lumb, a long-time supporter of reopening the pool, said: “He was very supportive and hopefully has some good contacts who might be able to help with funding.

“The current situation is that we have completed an asbestos survey, which was fine but necessary before any work can be carried out. The next step is to get a thorough assessment of the electrics and plant room, including the boiler, filters and pump.

“We then plan to drain the pool and assess the state of the tiling and pool floor, and decide whether to get it re-tiled or a liner put in.”

But funding remains the project’s biggest challenge.

“Our biggest problem is that we currently have no money to undertake this work so we are actively seeking funding,” Dr Lumb said.

“If anyone has any useful contacts regarding funding, please let us know. In the meantime, we have set up a JustGiving account where, if you wish, you can donate.”

The group also plans to recruit volunteers to help repaint the site, tidy the grounds and repair vandalism damage.

Dr Lumb added: “If there are any local tradesmen – joiners, painters, landscapers, electricians, plumbers and others – who are prepared to give up some of their time and help the local community, that would be a huge benefit.”

Donations can be made to the fundraiser here.