Iconic lido in UK seaside town is reopening TODAY after completing mega £7.6m revamp
A HISTORIC UK lido is reopening today after undergoing a major £7.6million revamp.
Swimmers in the seaside town will be able to take a dip in the outdoor pool for the first time in four years.
Closed since 2022, Hilsea Lido in Portsmouth, has been renovated for public use by local council, with funding from the government.
The refurbishment, which started in 2024, was prompted by health and safety risks of the 90-year-old structure.
The grand reopening will take place today (Saturday, May 2), with an ice cream parlour and food van now based on site.
Works also include the reinforcement of its base and walls, the replacement of old pool equipment, and the restoration of the original shallow lagoons.
New showers and toilets, including a Changing Places toilet, and a sauna were added as part of the upgrades.
Formerly a saltwater pool, the 220-foot lido will now feature unheated chlorinated fresh water.
A long-term sustainable heating solution is part of future plans for the lido.
Hilsea Lido will be run by Sea Lanes Brighton, a group of local businesses and open-water swimming enthusiasts, alongside South Downs Leisure.
The multi-million pound development was further financed by a Levelling Up fund, meaning any outdated equipment and facilities have been replaced, such as the pool base and walls.
Speaking ahead of the opening, Judit Kollat, the lido’s general manager, told the BBC: “As Hilsea Lido celebrates its 90th birthday, we are proud to be leading the next chapter in its history.
“It is more than a pool, it’s a place with history and heart.
“We aim to create a vibrant hub for the local community, a centre for both mental and physical wellbeing. The lido will offer something for everyone.”
Harry Smith, director of Sea Lanes, the new operators of the lido, said: “We’re excited to open the doors, welcome everyone back, and start a brand‑new chapter for Hilsea Lido.”
Duncan Anderson, CEO of South Downs Leisure, which assisted the project, added: “It’s hugely exciting and a new chapter for the whole of the Portsmouth.
“When you talk to people in the local area, they’ve all got memories of Hilsea Lido and I think they can’t wait to get back and splash in this pool again.”
The lido served as a training centre for the Team GB diving team ahead of the 1936 and 1952 Olympics, and it also featured as a filming location for The Who’s 1975 film Tommy.