A Renfrewshire Council board is set to discuss a significant investment in Renfrew’s iconic Victory Baths, aimed at securing the long-term future of the building.
The proposals, following recent structural assessments, include a range of necessary repairs—such as work beneath the pool, concrete and masonry repairs, roof and drainage upgrades, and general improvements designed to maintain the character of this much-loved facility.
With costs estimated at £600,000 and given the building’s status as a Renfrew Common Good asset, funding will be shared between Renfrewshire Council and the Common Good Fund. The Common Good contribution will be capped at £500,000, with any additional costs covered by the Council to protect the fund.
The report highlights that, as a building now over a century old, Victory Baths is beginning to show signs of age. Repairs to the superstructure are becoming increasingly difficult to manage and less sustainable. Any future refurbishment is likely to require significant investment, including the potential replacement of major structural elements such as sections of the concrete framework.
Despite the scale of the proposed works, there are no plans to close the pool during the improvement programme.
Renfrewshire Council’s Finance Board will consider the proposals—brought forward by Finance Convener and Renfrew North & Braehead Councillor John Shaw—on Thursday.
Cllr John Shaw, Chair of the Finance Board and local councillor for Renfrew North & Braehead, said: “The Victory Baths are a cherished part of Renfrew’s heritage and continue to play an important role in the life of our community. These proposed works are not just about tackling current maintenance needs, they’re about taking steps to secure the future of the building for the next generation.
With the building now over 100 years old, we need to act decisively to ensure it remains safe, functional and fit for purpose. I’m pleased to bring this paper forward and hope to see it approved so the work can get underway.”
Cllr Lisa-Marie Hughes, fellow Councillor for Renfrew North & Braehead and Chair of OneRen, added: “The Victory Baths are more than just a pool, they are part of the fabric of Renfrew and hold a special place in the hearts of so many local people. I welcome the proposed investment as an important milestone in preserving and protecting it.
I’m particularly pleased to hear that the pool will remain open throughout the works, so users can continue to enjoy it without disruption.”
If approved, work is expected to begin over the summer period.
Headline photo: Renfrew Victory Baths (photo taken 2021)
Photo Credit: Renfrewshire Council