Councillors in Aberdeenshire are to consider proposals for the restoration of a historic outdoor swimming pool.

A report, which is due to go before the Policy and Resources Committee next week, recommended councillor approve proposals for essential repair works to be carried out on the art deco facility.

The total cost of the repair work is said to be £300k.

Tarlair Swimming Pool was built in 1930 and included a swimming and paddling pool, boating pool and tea pavilion. The 1930s art deco facility was granted category A-listed status by Historic Scotland because of its architectural and historic importance.

Despite its poor condition, the facility still attracts visitors.

The Friends of Tarlair community group has been involved in fundraising activities and cleaning out the facility. The group has also submitted a Stage 1 application for Community Asset Transfer, which is currently being assessed by officers.

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Earlier this year, Banff and Buchan Area Committee asked for more research to be done into the facility before any decision on its future can be made. Historic conservation experts, Addison Conservation and Design, were then commissioned by the council to survey the area and its structure and come up with proposals for future repair works.

Work on the future of Tarlair Swimming Pool has included extensive consultation with the local community, including the Friends of Tarlair group and Banff and Macduff Community Council.

In the report, a variety of options are discussed and range from taking absolutely no action to full refurbishment of the facility at a cost of £2.5m, but the recommendation is to approve outline proposals for essential repairs to Tarlair Swimming Pool, at an estimated cost of £300k.

The repairs are designed to conserve the pool’s category A listing, provide a platform for potential future uses of the facility, prevent significant maintenance costs in the future and alleviate any current health and safety concerns.

The Banff and Buchan Area Committee has already considered the report and approved the recommendation.

(JP)