‘Stylish’ historic facility worth saving

While Tarlair has a special place in the hearts of many locals, its importance has also been recognised at a national level.

Historic Environment Scotland has described the swimming pool as “the outstanding surviving example of its type in Scotland”.

And while its position on the Buildings at Risk Register for Scotland is a concern, the register’s page offers numerous insights into why the pools and their buildings deserve saving.

It notes that Tarlair is a “remarkably fine, little-altered and early example of an outdoor Art Deco swimming pool”.

The site was designed by the burgh surveyor for Macduff, John C Miller, taken forward by the Burgh Council in 1929 and built by the local firm of Robert Morrison and Son, opening in the summer of 1931 to an impressed public.

The register notes that, in the present day, it is one of only three known surviving seaside outdoor swimming pool complexes in Scotland and “certainly the one that best retains its original appearance”.

The others are Stonehaven – built in 1934 and which was never tidal – and Gourock, which has been significantly altered over the years.

Historic Environment Scotland has said: “A small number of alterations and additions have taken place since it was built but these are of a superficial nature and its appearance has changed very little since it was photographed in 1935.

“Its state of intactness, simple yet stylish design, early date and magnificent location all contribute to make this pool the outstanding surviving example of its type in Scotland.”