ONE of the oldest swimming pools in the country is due to undergo a complete transformation.

And a mystery local benefactor has offered to meet half the cost of the funding.

Cirencester Open Air Swimming Pool has been based in the heart of the town since its opening in 1869.

It was first created for the public’s health and hygiene but soon evolved into a popular area for swimming and sunbathing.

Every winter a committee of volunteers work tirelessly to raise funds so the 146-year-old pool can open during the summer.

But now, they have decided it is time for the cycle of repairs to stop.

“We cannot keep going like this,” said committee chairman Mike Cutts.

“When something goes wrong, we have to fix it before the pool opens. It’s so time-consuming. So we have decided to get the site upgraded.”

The much-needed upgrade will see the layout of the outdoor pool completely transformed, with the changing rooms moved from the back of the pool to the front, to keep visitors from trudging through the sun-bathing area to get changed.

The inner-workings of the pool will also be modernised, meaning the committee will not have to battle to raise funds to keep it open every year.

“We are now in a difficult area as we are waiting for planning consent from Cotswold District Council,” added Mr Cutts. “We can’t rush it and we obviously need funds.”

Mr Cutts said the committee was not willing to say who the mysterious donor is just yet or how much the whole project will cost.

But the chairman did admit that it would be a “substantial amount”.

“The bottom line is it’s a fantastic pool and also unique,” said Mr Cutts. “It’s one of the oldest in the country. It’s twice the age of the Cheltenham Lido.”

Plans for the new pool have been supported by Cirencester Town Council’s planning committee.

Now, the Cirencester Open Air Pool committee is eagerly awaiting CDC’s official response.

A public consultation, for residents to see the new plans for the pool, will be on display at Cirencester Parish Church on Saturday, October 25 between 12-4pm.

Everyone is welcome to go along to view the plans and ask any questions.