Bramley Baths has extended its community share offer after raising £120,000.
Built to improve public health and wellbeing in response to the outbreak of cholera,
Bramley Baths was one of eight public bath houses in Leeds.
Local residents came to wash, swim and use the Russian Steam Baths which was a fashionable habit with the wealthier Edwardians.
The baths have remained a constant in Leeds life, and following restoration in the late
80s, was reopened in the early 90s.
Last year the baths celebrated its tenth anniversary of being a community-led enterprise and a Blue Plaque from Leeds Civic Trust was awarded in recognition of its significance in Leeds’s wider heritage.
But earlier this year, a series of vital repairs were uncovered including a full replacement of the bath’s roof.
Last month a campaign was launched to raise £350,000 for repairs and in the six weeks since an impressive £120,000 has been raised.
As part of it, a Community Share Offer was launched which allows people who donate to purchase a part of the historic site from as little as £50.
Sharing the news on Instagram, they said: “Thanks to the amazing support of our community and organisations we have raised over £122,515 with 188 people investing, however, for us to unlock more match funding, we still need help to ensure the roof is repaired and we can implement cost saving measures for us to make long term savings on energy bills.
“To get involved you can invest from as little as £50. You can support either through our Crowdfunder page (you can find the link in our bio) or at reception, where you can also pick up a full brochure.
“You can even buy shares as a gift for Christmas (for those people that have everything!) or in memory of someone special.
“With your help, we will be able to continue providing our services for years to come and ensure that future generations of local children have the chance to learn to swim.”
You can donate here to save the baths.
Read more: Bramley Baths, the last remaining Edwardian bath house in Leeds, receives Blue Plaque
Featured image – Bramley Baths
