A Victorian tidal pool in Fife’s picturesque East Neuk is to be brought back to its former glory by spring.
The West Braes Project group has secured £270,000 to restore the sea pool at Pittenweem and the work is expected to be complete by February.
The group has been keeping followers updated on social media, and already visitors are coming to Pittenweem to see the historic pool, which was a huge draw for families before it fell into dereliction decades ago.
Work set to get under way soon will include replacing eroded concrete and installing steps, terraces and a ramp for emergency access.
The project’s Nicola Thomson said: “I think this will make a big difference to Pittenweem, in particular local businesses will certainly benefit from it. They’re saying they’re already benefitting from it.”
West Braes Project trustee Bill Watson said many local people had fond memories of the sea pool.
He said: “We help run the crazy golf and nearly every weekend someone comes along and reminisces about the pool, and how they would swim in it every day during the summer, and how busy it was.
“In its heyday it had a diving board, a chute and a float in the middle.”
In years gone by there was a row of wooden changing huts beside the pool. Mr Watson said the new look pool would include canvas changing shelters for bathers.
Nicola said the project had created a buzz among open water swimmers.
There has been increasing awareness about the benefits of open water swimming in recent years.
“Two or three wild swimming groups will use the pool in the state it’s in just now. They can’t wait until it’s done.
“People are becoming aware of the health benefits. Doctors are prescribing things like this for mental health recovery and skin conditions.
“People are meeting new people – the benefits are massive.”
Nicola said there would be no lifeguard at the pool and bathers are advised to swim with a “buddy” and consider wearing a wetsuit.
The project must be finished by February, after which the group’s funding from the EU supported Fife Leader scheme runs out.
Fife Environment Trust and Fife Council have also supported the project.
