The derelict pool site at Grange-over-Sands could be transformed into a state-of-the-art skate park, a verdant mini-Eden project or an open-air performance venue, reports Beth Broomby.
Residents and local authorities alike are keen to redevelop the art deco style lido, which has stood empty and unused for more than a decade.
Grange's 3Ps Working Party - a partnership determined to see Grange rejuvenated with a redeveloped pool and prom coupled with public art projects - has worked for 18 months to set the ball rolling.
On Wednesday, the doors to the pool were thrown open to help a team of consultants glean inspiration from the disused building.
The winning consultant will be given £5,000 and three months to draw up their unique vision for Grange but at this stage many are remaining tight-lipped.
Capita dbs consultant John Kirton of Lancaster said: "We have lots of really brilliant ideas for the site but we cannot divulge them because we have competitors."
Ideas to come out of early 3Ps discussions include:
l A mini Eden project which would see the creation of an Alpine garden covered by a bubble roof complete with rockeries created from materials from the lido, waterfalls, and a garden centre.
l An open air skate park with ramps and jumps designed to accommodate inline skaters and skateboarders.
l An open air performance venue suitable for staging events such as concerts and plays.
David Strawbridge, Grange resident and member of the 3Ps working party, said: "There are literally hundreds of ideas in the pipeline but I think whatever we do needs to be low maintenance without a lot of cost otherwise it won't happen."
Making the pool safe and site clearance will cost more than a quarter of a million pounds, but there are hopes the project could attract significant funding from bodies such as the North West Development Agency.
SLDC town centres manager Jayne Kendall said: "The important thing to remember is nothing is set in tablets of stone.
Once the consultants report back with their ideas, the community will have the final say."
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