Celebrating ten years of dedication to restoring Aberdeen's beloved leisure site.
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Bon Accord Baths: A decade of community effort to revive a historic gem
It has been ten years since the formation of Bon Accord Heritage, a dedicated group focused on preserving one of Aberdeen’s most cherished leisure sites, the Bon Accord Baths.
This historic facility, known for its stunning 118-foot pool and impressive architecture, faced an uncertain future after its closure in 2008. However, thanks to the relentless efforts of volunteers and community members, the baths are now on the path to revival.
The journey of restoration
The story of Bon Accord Baths is one of resilience and community spirit. When the baths closed, a group of passionate volunteers came together to save this iconic structure. They began by cleaning, clearing debris, and restoring the building to its former glory. Steven Cooper, a board member of Bon Accord Heritage, emphasized the urgency of their mission, stating, “If we hadn’t stepped in at that point, well, another year or so and the building couldn’t have been saved.” Their hard work culminated in a public opening to celebrate the baths’ 80th birthday, drawing crowds eager to witness the restoration progress.
A community-driven initiative
The revitalization of Bon Accord Baths is not just a project for a few; it is a city-wide initiative. Steven noted, “This is not our project, it’s the city’s project.” The community of Aberdeen has shown overwhelming support, with local businesses contributing to the restoration efforts. The charity has organized various fundraising events, raising significant amounts to ensure the building’s upkeep. As Steven put it, “The money raised through fundraising is all going into the building.” This collaborative effort has transformed the baths into a community hub, with events like the Aberdeen Jazz Festival utilizing the space, showcasing its remarkable acoustics.
Future plans and community engagement
Looking ahead, Bon Accord Heritage is committed to reopening the baths as a leisure facility while diversifying its offerings. A recent survey revealed that 99% of Aberdeen residents believe a pool is essential for the city center. Trustee Becky Orlinski expressed the importance of community input, stating, “There would be no point in putting in all this time and effort if it wasn’t going to be used.” The organization is excited to share its vision with the public, ensuring that the community’s needs are met in the redevelopment process.
As the restoration progresses, volunteers continue to work diligently, uncovering and preserving the building’s historical features, including the Turkish baths and original bathtubs. While the public has had limited access to certain areas, the dedication of the volunteers ensures that the baths will soon be a vibrant part of Aberdeen’s leisure landscape once again. The journey of Bon Accord Baths is a testament to the power of community, showcasing how collective effort can breathe new life into a beloved heritage site.
