Major step forward for Tarlair Outdoor Pool restoration

Plans to bring an iconic north-east outdoor swimming pool back into public use have taken a major step forward today with the announcement that an architectural firm has now been appointed to commence the project.

In a statement Friends of Tarlair group said: "Studio Octopi in partnership with Heritage Architecture are delighted to announce that The Friends of Tarlair Community Group have appointed them for the restoration of the Pavilion at Tarlair Outdoor Pool, with funding assistance secured from Aberdeeshire Council's Macduff Vision and Action Plan."

"FOT unanimously chose Studio Octopi and Heritage Architecture plus their team of Scottish Consultants for their clarity of thought, enthusiasm for outdoor swimming and experience with other pools and heritage across the UK.

"The duos work with Save Grange Lido Community Group who are working to restore the 1930s built Grange Over Sands Lido was felt to be directly relevant to Tarlair's restoration.

"Aberdeenshire Council are delighted to provide the assistance to get this project moving, and we are grateful for their support."

The project programme includes a planning and listed building consent application in November this year with tender and construction commencing during 2022 once the full funding package is secured.

They added : "Our thoughts and respect go to Conservation Architect John Addison of Addison Conservation and Design who produced a document in 2014 explaining how best to proceed with repairs in order to protect the whole site's A-listing.

"We are over the moon about this, and look forward to working with Chris Romer-Lee and his team."

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