The open-air swimming baths in Pontllanfraith opened in the 1930s and remained in use for much of the rest of the twentieth century.
It was the only baths in the area at the time and was much used by the schools.
As the years passed, it was realised that the Sirhowy Valley did not get sufficient warm weather to justify the baths’ retention.
Indoor baths were built in Cefn Fforest, just above Blackwood, and the open-air baths were replaced by a children’s playground.