Ashton Paddling Pools
Nestled along the scenic coastal promenade of Gourock, the historic Ashton paddling pools and sand pit area hold a cherished place in local memory as a nostalgic focal point of Scotland’s Firth of Clyde seaside tradition.
Though the original tidal paddling structures have since transitioned into history, the area along Ashton Promenade remains highly popular for walkers, cyclists, and visitors seeking sweeping, panoramic sunset reflections over the water.
Creative Regeneration
We are working with a local group to look at the feasibility of bringing the paddling pool area back into community use, providing a range of opportunities for locals, visitors and celebrating it’s heritage.
We are seeking to learn from other groups across Scotland including the Friends of the Cellardyke Tidal Pool to The Friends of Tarlair. Both these groups are reviving and regenerating tidal pools through community led regeneration with a broad range of activities.
Our initial work includes researching into the various adaptations and infilling over the years, utilities / structural and topographical surveys and community engagement to help direct potential new uses which might include things such as:
Accessible paddling pools,
Sandpit / Beach / Deckchair area
Murals / Artworks
Performance Area / Band Stand
Shallow water based activities like boating and S T E A M activities (marine engineering)
Improving the esplanade with serviced spaces for food & drink trucks.
Potential Community Cafe / Changing Facilities at the end of the Esplanade
Getting involved
If there is ideas, knowledge, skills & experience you can offer to assist this project, please do get in touch. The local group leading on this project are looking for volunteers to help develop the group and proposals.
We are also keen to hear from anyone that may have photographs or memories of the paddling pools in use that they might be willing to share with us.
