24-04-2025
Work begins to demolish ‘iconic' swimming baths in Blackburn
Work has begun to demolish a once popular swimming pool in Blackburn.
A section of Daisyfield Swimming Baths has already been demolished by workers over the past week.
The car park area has been cordoned off and, although work stopped over the Easter break, workers were set to continue with the project this week off Daisy Lane.
The 118-year-old building was closed in 2023 after the discovery of legionella bacteria at the site.
The decision followed a consultation over swimming provision in the area.
The car park area has been cordoned off (Image: Nq)In April of 2024, the Lancashire Telegraph reported that Blackburn with Darwen Council was pressing ahead with plans to demolish the complex, despite calls by swimmers and supporters to keep it open.
A finance council meeting approved the demolition of Daisyfield and the redundant Shadsworth Leisure Centre, allocating a budget of £1.5million to cover costs for both.
All debris and spoil from the demolished building are to be removed other than crushed masonry/concrete, which will be used for a temporary surface where the pool will be filled.
The controversial closure came after an officer's report which said the council could not afford the £71,000 needed to refurbish the pool plant and £3.1million more required for wider building repairs to keep the pools operational in the short term.
In October last year, councillors were told there were no plans to sell the site.
