Baths reopening hailed as ‘impossible dream come true’

THERE will be more than a ripple at Castleton Swimming Pool tomorrow (Sunday) when the baths re-open to the public.

It marks the culmination of a regeneration project, which saw Rochdale council team up with local entrepreneur Nick Crewe to save the historic pool from closure.

A re-opening ceremony will take place tomorrow on at 12.30pm.

The pool was closed down in December 2016, when traces of Legionella were found in its shower system.

A rescue package was secured and Mr Crewe’s company Castleton-based Crewe Industrial took the plunge to invest time, money and effort to restore the baths to their former glory.

From next week swimmers will once again be able to take to the water at the pool, which first opened to the public in 1910.

Castleton councillor Billy Sheerin, who worked alongside ward colleagues Councillors Aasim Rashid and Jean Hornby to help save the baths, said: “This is a really emotional moment for me and so many others.

“So much time, effort and money has gone into restoring the baths.

“The impossible dream really has come true and when the ribbon is cut on Sunday there will considerable pride that so much hard work has come to fruition.

“I would like to thank everyone, particularly Crewe Industrial, for doing so much, so quickly ensure our famous baths can be at the heart of the local community for decades to come.”

Nick Crewe, of Crewe Industrial, said: “It’s a proud moment that our vision has become a reality.

“This famous building is a real asset and I am proud to have played my part in securing Castleton Pool’s future, restoring it to its former glory and ensuring in can be enjoyed by generations to come.”