Volunteers working to bring Aberdeen’s Bon Accord Baths back to life are opening the doors to the public this weekend – for the first time this year.
On Saturday, volunteers will host an open day at the art deco pool.
While the climate is somewhat colder than in previous open days, it is hoped many will come to share fond memories and see the restorations being carried out on the building.
Volunteers will also share some “exciting news” on the project and people will have the chance to purchase some unique Christmas themed gifts.
Huge part of Aberdeen’s history and hopefully its future
When the art deco building was closed in 2008, it fell into disrepair and got into a “very bad state”.
The volunteer-led community group Bon Accord Heritage, is making an effort to restore the beloved building to its former glory.
Trustee Steven Cooper said volunteers have been working “very hard” on the building.
While there is much still to be done, Mr Cooper said the group were first concerned with making sure the building is safe, secure and watertight.
He said: “We’ve gone from having the building in a completely derelict and unsecured state to having it in a state where we can welcome the public in.
“We’re hoping that people will see a significant improvement in terms of the standard of the building and we’ve done quite a lot of external repairs on areas of the roof.
“The building’s dried out and it no longer feels damp.”
As one of the few remaining art deco pools of its size and scale in the UK, it has gained nationwide recognition. However, Mr Cooper said there is much more to the building than that.
“It’s got a huge part of Aberdeen’s social history,” he said. “It’s been an important part of the city for generations.
“But what we’re also hearing is that people really want this to be a part of the future of the city for a reimagined Bon Accord Baths. To come back as an important community for health and wellbeing hub that can play a part in city centre regeneration.”
Looking forward to hearing people’s memories and stories
Mr Cooper added they had some “exciting updates” to share with people on the day as well as a uniquely stocked Christmas shop.
Set up in the former cafe area, gifts from local artists including Bon Accord Baths themed Christmas cards, baubles and prints will be available to purchase.
While admission into the building is free, Mr Cooper said any donations to help carry on restoration works would be very welcome.
Mr Cooper added:Â “We’re hoping to meet members of the public with memories of building and thoughts on the project.
“We want people’s feedback on what we’ve been doing and what they’d like to see happen in the building. We’d like to see as much of the public interest in the project as possible.”
The doors will be open from 10am-2pm on Saturday at Bon Accord Baths on Justice Mill Lane.
Conversation