Broomhill Pool restoration receives £10,000 community grant

Why it matters: The funding demonstrates continued community support for the project and will help preserve key features of the historic outdoor swimming pool.

The big picture: The grant comes shortly after Ipswich Borough Council approved restoration plans for the site, which has been derelict since 2002.

What they're saying:

• "This generous grant from a key community partner is a positive message to the pool's stakeholders. It demonstrates resolute support from the local community," says Mark Ling, Broomhill Pool Trust Chairman.
• Julie Marker, Community Officer at NW Ipswich Big Local Trust, describes the pool as "a key recreation facility serving northwest Ipswich (and far beyond) for many years."

The details:

• The funding can help secure and restore the pool facility
• Plans include maintaining the pool's 15ft depth, ensuring its status as joint-deepest outdoor public pool in Britain alongside Hilsea Lido in Portsmouth
• Work on the diving stage will form part of the second phase of restoration

What's next: The Trust says it is working closely with Fusion Lifestyle on the diving stage restoration plans. These are expected to be central to the second stage of the redevelopment.

The bottom line: This community funding boost marks another positive step forward in the pool's journey from derelict site to restored community facility.