Why it matters: The approval marks a crucial step forward for the restoration of one of Britain's deepest outdoor public pools, which has stood empty for more than two decades.
The big picture: Leisure company Fusion Lifestyle received approval from Ipswich Borough Council for plans submitted in February to transform the Sherrington Road site into a modern health and wellbeing hub while preserving its historic features.
Details: The restoration project includes:
Repairs to the main pool
A new health and wellbeing centre with a gym and fitness studio
Accessible changing facilities
An outdoor café in the repurposed buffet building
Restoration of the grandstand and below-ground changing areas
Between the lines: The plans mirror those previously approved in 2019, but the project was halted when the Covid pandemic struck in 2020. Planning permission had expired during lockdowns.
What's next: The planning officer has set conditions for the development, including requirements for work on protected tree orders and compliance with local planning authority guidelines.
The bottom line: After multiple setbacks, the revival of this historic swimming venue is now back on track, promising to bring a piece of Ipswich's architectural heritage back to life for future generations.
