WORK is progressing on an applicaton to secure funding to overhaul the lido at Grange-over-Sands.

South Lakeland District Council (SLDC) is continuing to prepare documentation ahead of a ‘stage one’ application being submitted to the Heritage Lottery Fund to secure the cash needed to bring the old outdoor pool back into use.

“I am glad that work has started on the Heritage Lottery Funding application for the Lido and that extensive research is being carried out,” said Graham Vincent, portfolio holder for health and wellbeing.

“The sustainability of the lido is crucial and many options need to be explored to ensure it is attractive to a wide range of people and offers year round facilities.”

A project group meeting, which included Grange Town Council and SLDC, was held at the end of January.

As a result the council is now exploring ‘all opportunities’ to ensure the building is used as fully as possible, which could include additional recreational facilities, retail units, or food outlets.

Research is also being conducted into how it can be run efficiently and if it could be heated to allow swimming throughout the seasons.

“Swimming is a great way to stay fit and active whatever your age,” continued Coun Vincent.

“The lido will help to facilitate this.

“However it is still early stages and this is only the beginning of the application process.”

Heritage grant applications go through a two-round process.

If the first stage is successful, the council will decide how long it needs to develop the second-round proposals, although they say it could take up to 24 months, depending on complexity.

A consultation over the summer found 91 per cent of respondents supported or strongly supported the principle of restoration and development of the lido.

“Looking into further detail at what options are most sustainable at the lido is the right thing to do,” added Grange Town council leader, Tom Harvey.

“It’s important that we get the development of the site right so that its viable for many years to come and I welcome further research before a funding bid, so that we get a facility that is able to stand on its own two feet and that Grange residents can be proud of."