The Art Deco building, which was constructed in 1938, has been closed for 15 years. Now the neglected site will be given a new lease of life as an open air swimming pool and fitness centre.

When the original facility was built, outdoor swimming and diving were in vogue both as a pastime and spectator event. In its heyday, the pool had a grandstand that could seat 700, and catered for as many as 2000 visitors a day. However, in more recent years these numbers declined, and the pool was closed in 2002.

The National Lottery-supported project, run by fitness and leisure charity Fusion Lifestyle, will restore the pool and diving boards, allow the water to be heated and erect a replica clock tower in the buildings’ original art-deco style.

With a pool, as well as year-round fitness and wellbeing centre, galleries, displays and events such as film screenings, local residents will once again have a multi-purpose community space.

Ipswich Borough Council have also committed £1m towards the project costs with the remaining £2m being funded directly by Fusion Lifestyle.

Mark Ling of the Broomhill Pool Trust said: “Well done and a massive thank you to Fusion Lifestyle, HLF and to Ipswich Borough Council for their shared commitment and vision.

“After an epic 15-year campaign, we are delighted that one of Britain’s finest lidos - and a much loved part of Ipswich’s heritage - has not only been saved, but will be enhanced!”