A VITAL swimming pool extension which will guarantee the venue’s future is now a step closer to reality, thanks to an £80,000 grant.

Sports England has awarded Wigton Baths the conditional grant, which will be put towards the loft extension.

The community asset fund is a programme dedicated to enhancing the spaces in the local community that give people the opportunity to be active.

Alan Pitcher, honorary president of Wigton Baths Trust, explained: “We’re 99 per cent sure we will get the funding.

“There’s no reason why the conditions can’t be met, otherwise we wouldn’t have applied.

“The only way we can describe how we are feeling is ecstatic - it shows that people believe in us.

“I’m happy that the future of the pool looks positive and we’re keeping a community asset here.”

Once the extension is complete, it will enable the pool to host courses without having to close to the public.

As it stands, the pool has to shut while courses take place poolside, but with new classrooms upstairs the pool would be able to remain open.

Elaine Hudson, manager of the pool, said: “It’s vital for us to have the loft extension.

“We have to send people Newcastle to train because we are unable to do it here. It really will enhance the pool.”

As well as having training facilities, the aim is also to have a viewing area too.

This will also bring with it a number of benefits for both staff and pool users.

“The viewing area will mean there is less of a distraction for children, because we won’t have as many people sitting on the poolside,” explained Elaine.

“It will also mean less mess and we’ll be able to keep the pool temperature more stable.

“Currently, when the door opens the hot air gets out and the temperature drops. We’ll also enhance disabled access.

“It will increase the pools outlook.”

Wigton Baths has also revealed its plans to host pool parties, which would make use of the new loft extension.

Members of the public who currently want to have a pool party at the swimming baths have to go elsewhere for food, but with thenew loft extension, they will be able to bring their own food and enjoy it in a designated area.

There are also plans to host holiday camps and themed ones during the half term holidays.

“This grant will get the ball rolling,” added Alan. “This £80,000 will not cover the loft extension, but is a good start and means people will be more willing to donate and give us grants if we’ve got the initial one to set us off.”

Those behind Wigton Baths thanked Hazel Broatch for project managing, Allerdale Council for providing positive support, and Lord Roger Liddle for providing references and recommendations to the right people at the right time.