Meeting held to discuss the future of Wigton Baths, Cumbria

The Wigton Baths have been a huge part of the local community since they were built in 1901. Members of the audience shared memories of learning to swim in the pool around 50 years ago.

But now, as the cost of energy bills continues to soar, the charity is appealing for help in the form of donations, volunteers and ideas to ensure that it isn't forced to close its doors permanently, having only previously shut on three occasions - World War One, World War Two, and during the Coronavirus pandemic.

Representatives from the trust were joined by businesses, council members and local people to discuss how best to raise the money necessary to ensure that Wigton Baths can become sustainable once again.

Trust members stressed the poignant message that without additional income, the pool will not be able to survive in the long-term. 

They feel that money can be raised through fundraising via their JustGiving page, monthly memberships and loyalty cards. 

Wigton Baths Trust also retain planning permission, which they have had since 2018, to build a cafe and viewing area extension, but they have been unable to secure the necessary funding to make that dream a possibility. 

Former mayor of the town, Christopher Scott, was in attendance at Monday's meeting. 

He said: "After attending the meeting with the Trust, it became clear that they are in need of volunteers and funding in order to continue operating effectively. It would be a huge loss for the community if the baths were to close down, as they have been a longstanding establishment in Wigton.

"Volunteers are essential for the operation of the baths, helping with tasks such as cleaning, maintenance, and organising events. Without enough volunteers, the Trust may struggle to keep the baths running smoothly. Additionally, funding is necessary to cover costs such as repairs and upgrades to facilities, as well as staff salaries and other expenses.

"It is crucial that the community comes together to support the Wigton Baths Trust, ensuring that this valuable asset remains open for years to come. By volunteering time and resources, residents can help to preserve a piece of local history and continue to enjoy the benefits of having a public swimming and leisure facility in their town. I urge anyone who cares about the well-being of the community to consider getting involved with the Trust and contributing to their efforts to keep the baths open and thriving."

As reported by the News & Star, the swimming pool's bills have more than tripled, while staff wages have also increased by around £10,000 a year.

Solutions to bring down the cost of bills include installing insulation panels, or reducing the current output of the pool heaters, which produce around 450kW of energy each year. 

Cumberland Councillor Elaine Lynch couldn't be in attendance, but provided the following statement of support: "Wigton Baths is great for Wigton! It is where I, and countless others, learnt to swim and provides a much-needed leisure facility. 

"Wigton Baths plays a key role in delivering activities, lessons and numerous opportunities to contribute to the health and wellbeing of all our residents in Wigton and the surrounding area. 

"Cumberland Council is supporting the Baths with applying for grants, giving help and advice and also the 10p swims at holiday times which the local children love. 

"It is not easy running a swimming pool in the present economic climate particularly with high energy costs and I have nothing but praise for the Trust and those who work here.

Children can enjoy 10p swims during the school holidays (Image: Jimmy Moorhouse)

Several audience members volunteered their time and energy during a lengthy Q&A session, as the trust currently has just four members, Claire Shepherd, Jo Wolloff, Martin Tickner and Louise Baxter.

Mark Jenkinson, MP for Workington, said: "I’d like to pay tribute to the trustees who have worked so hard to ensure that Wigton Baths have remained open for residents of the town and surrounding area.  The baths have only ever closed for the two World Wars and the pandemic.

"But with rising costs, the baths need residents’ support more than ever and I would urge everyone to get behind this fantastic public asset with its unique local history to ensure its continuation for future generations in Wigton.

"As the Deputy Leader of Allerdale, I was proud to support this fantastic local swimming pool, saved from closure by the former County Council by a group of dedicated and selfless locals.  Cumberland Council must step up to the plate and directly support this important community asset, as it does all other pools across the authority."

Wigton isn't the only swimming pool struggling of course, with research suggesting that by 2030, over 2000 pools in England could potentially be lost if nothing is done.

But given this pool's incredible longevity and commitment to serving the community while keeping its prices low, there is a real desire from local people to help wherever they can.

The meeting was a positive first step, but now it seems clear that there is a huge amount of work to be done and money to be made if Wigton Baths is going to survive in the long term.