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A massive regeneration project at the Bathing Pools is set to be completed early next year, and the charity organising its redesign is calling for further support to help complete the project.
Vive La Vallette has raised £1 million so far and needs a final £500,000 of public, private, and corporate donations to help finish the new development.
“We’re committed to this being a long-term project,” said the group's Community Lead Helen Bonner-Morgan.
“All money raised will go into developing the surrounding area."
Pictured: “There have been no issues so far, and everything has gone to plan,” said Mrs Bonner-Morgan, on the construction of the new community centre and changing rooms.
The project, once complete, looks not just to be a café and a community centre, but an "amalgam" of multiple purposes for people of all generations. The hope is for the public to help build a thriving community around the bathing pools.
The charity has a 25-year lease gratis from the States on the land above the Ladies Pool, with the option to extend a further 25 years.
“We are now appealing to the broader community including businesses, grant-giving bodies and individuals to help secure the legacy of Guernsey’s historic pools,” said Vive La Vallette Chair David Warr.
Pictured: “Our aim is to ensure that VLV can reinvest any trading surplus into the facilities, support community usage and improve the surrounding area,” said Mr Warr.
“The charity’s vision is for the improved facilities to be a welcoming and vibrant destination for swimmers and other activities which help enrich islanders’ lives. The charity is also committed to celebrating the rich history of the bathing pools and promoting sustainability and protecting the local environment."
The States of Guernsey has invested £300,000 into the project and will be starting remedial work on the pools later this year, something which Mrs Bonner-Morgan said is a testament to it being a public endeavour.
“This is a great example of a public/private partnership,” she said.
Pictured: A new fundraising push has been launched in line with new branding of the project.
Anyone interested in supporting the work can contact Mrs Bonner-Morgan by calling 07781 451472 or emailing contactus@vivelavallette.com for further information.
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