Withington Baths secures Lottery funding

Withington Baths and Leisure Centre has won an initial package of National Lottery funding to help restore its Edwardian structure.

The baths has secured £81,700 from the Heritage Lottery Fund to scope out the extent of restoration needed to fully refurbish the centre’s roof. Built in 1911, the building on Burton Road is used by around 2,000 members at present, and are the last working Edwardian baths in Manchester.

The building has been run by a community group since Manchester City Council handed the building over in 2013. Lottery funding will also be used to provide educational activities and to support promotion of the building’s heritage.

This community group has been supported by local property and built environment companies including Buttress Architects and Southway Housing Trust.

Paul Smith, director of Withington Baths and Leisure Centre said: “We’re delighted that we’ve received this support thanks to National Lottery players. It’s a massive step that moves us closer to restoring the Baths and making it the best place to swim and workout in Manchester.

“Since the Withington community came together in 2013 to save the building from closure, the team at the Baths have worked tirelessly to create a sustainable leisure facility for everyone. This investment puts us on the journey to restore the building as well as educating our members and visitors about the fascinating history of the Baths.”