Mayor Billy Sheerin reopens Castleton Health and Leisure Centre

Date published: 11 August 2020

The Mayor of Rochdale and Castleton ward councillor, Billy Sheerin, reopened the newly refurbished Castleton Health and Leisure Centre on Friday (7 August) with an official ribbon cutting.

Following government guidelines, the well-used Edwardian baths closed its doors earlier this year on 19 March: then with no indicator of when it could reopen. Whilst the country awaited the reopening of gyms and swimming pools, work went on behind the scenes at the 110-year-old baths, ensuring it will be in great condition when given the green light to reopen.

Rochdale Online was given an exclusive look at the new baths ahead of reopening to the public on Saturday (8 August):

• www.rochdaleonline.co.uk/news-features/2/news-headlines/135839/exclusive-inside-castleton-health-and-leisure-centres-new-look

The former Castleton Baths re-opened its doors to the public under its new name - Castleton Health and Leisure Centre - in October 2017, after the pool’s long-term future was secured following a community asset transfer to local businessman Nick Crewe, who restored the baths to their former glory.

Since then, it has become one of Castleton’s most used facilities, with many local residents sharing fond memories of the venue. 

Mayor Sheerin said: “I can gladly say that reopening the baths is one of the biggest highlights of my career as a Castleton councillor. Having learnt to swim in the pool when I was a boy, as well as my father learning to swim there, my brother and my children, it was an incredible feeling to be back and open the facility for others to enjoy for many years to come.

“However, with new regulations I don’t think I will be able to swim in the pool as I’m too slow - and you aren’t allowed to overtake due to government guidelines - so I’ll save people the suffering!”

7-year-old local girl, Heidi Pearson, was amongst the first to try out the new facilities. She swam a total of 20 lengths in the brand new pool.

Mayor Sheerin added: “The pool has always been well loved in the village and it was a delight to be there and see the incredible renovations. Thank you to Jo Potts for inviting me to be a part of this event and to Crewe Industrial for all their hard work and vision to make these changes happen.”

Mayor Billy Sheerin reopening Castleton Health and Leisure Centre. Thursday 6 August