Hilsea Lido due to open in two years after renovations
Portsmouth’s popular Hilsea Lido will remain closed until 2025 as the ageing outdoor pool is repaired.
Following tits closureby the council in 2008, the Hilsea Lido Pool for the People trust volunteers came together to get the pool reopened and funding put in place.
It became a registered charity in 2010 and was given a lease of 99 years but had no funding.
Sabrina Richards, the chair and trustee of Hilsea Lido Pool for the People trust,said: ‘We opened the pool after we were given a £50,000 grant from Sport England and operated the pool for several seasons which raised the profile, provided employment for lifeguards, and created a family-friendly vibe.
‘However, we’ve had to close until 2025 as there is a lot of work going on behind the scenes related to the construction process, and the very small volunteer team does not have time to do all that is needed.’
[Artwork from the outside of the Lido as part of the renovations].The £20 million Levelling Up funding was awarded by the government directly to Portsmouth City Council where the funds were ‘distributed to several schemes’ as well as the Hilsea Lido.
Some of the funds will be going to Hilsea Lido to help with construction. They have been supported by Penny Mordaunt the local MP to secure the investment for the city.
Local resident Fatou Jaiteh, who used to visit Hilsea Lido, said: ‘I remember when I used to go out to the Lido with my family, I hope it can go back to its former glory days.’
Ms Richards added: ‘2025 is the 90th anniversary of the lido and it would be wonderful to be able to celebrate it properly.’
