Swimming pool cost £170,000

The pool cost 170,000 to build and its unveiling was described by the Mayor, RJ Mitchell, as “one of the greatest moments in the annals of the history of Lurgan.”

Alderman Mitchell, who welcomed the Governor of Northern Ireland and Lady Erskine on their first official visit to the town, said: “For over 60 years people have talked about the need for bathing facilities in one form or another in this town.

”Now all these dreams have reached fulfilment and today the citizens are all delighted to see the culmination of the months of planning and construction that have resulted in the completion of this great project.”

The opening ceremony was held in the foyer of the building and the Mayor thanked the architects and the contractors for their work. He said: “The council would like to acknowledge their satisfaction at the completion of this scheme in record time and to such a high standard.”

Governor Lord Erskine formally declared the building open for public use, the first indoor heated pool in Northern Ireland outside of Belfast and Londonderry.