ESTON marked a major milestone today (Saturday 14 February) with the official opening of its long-awaited new swimming pool at Eston Leisure Centre.
The project was funded by the Government, Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council, and the Tees Valley Mayor and Combined Authority, with Everyone Active appointed as operator.
Four-time Paralympic gold medallist Maisie Summers-Newton MBE and world-renowned football freestyler Jamie Knight headlined the celebrations, joining residents for a vibrant community launch event.
Construction of the modern and fully inclusive swimming facility, which includes a 25 metre, six lane pool, a learner pool with sensory lighting, and a 150-seat spectator gallery, is now complete.
Celebrations included a ribbon‑cutting ceremony, the burial of time capsules by Maisie and members of Eston Swim Club, and the first official swim led by Maisie alongside the club.
Cllr Ursula Earl, Cabinet Member for Health, Welfare and Housing, said: “It’s fantastic to have Maisie and Jamie with us to open our brand-new swimming pool. This is a proud moment for Eston. So many people from the wider area have been waiting a long time for swimming to return, and this amazing facility will serve our residents, families and young people for many years to come. The support from our special guests makes the day even more memorable.”
Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen said: “The reopening of Eston Baths is yet another example of the cash we’re putting behind projects that deliver real improvements that local people want to see.
“While we’re driving investment and creating good-quality, well-paid jobs that people deserve, we must also revitalise our towns, villages and high streets so everyone can benefit.”
Paul Ayre, Everyone Active’s Area Contract Manager, added: “We are incredibly excited to welcome the local community to the fantastic new pool and thank our sporting talent in Maisie and Jamie for making launch day very special. This is a state-of-the-art facility that people of all ages and abilities will enjoy for years to come, and we are very proud to be chosen to operate it.”
For further information about the facility, visit: The Eston Pool Project - Everyone Active