Peterborough Lido Users Express Dismay Over Proposed Temporary Closure

Swimmers who utilize a city centre lido have voiced their shock and devastation regarding proposals to mothball the facility. Peterborough City Council has stated that the outdoor pool, which typically closes during winter, incurs annual running costs of £400,000. The council has proposed temporarily closing the lido while it seeks external funding and develops a “new vision” for the facility. Dennis Jones, the Labour council leader, commented that mothballing the lido was “something we truly, truly want to avoid”. He further stated: “What we have to do is explore all options.” The council is projected to face a budget deficit exceeding £20m next year, required to fund services such as homeless and temporary accommodation, adult social services, and health and children’s services. In its budget proposals report, the council described delivering these services within budget as a “constant challenge”. It has proposed mothballing the lido while officers “work to develop a new vision for the facility” and pursue external investment. The lido’s annual running cost is £400,000, even when visitor fees are considered, despite a “relatively limited season”, according to the council. Clare Marshall, vice-chair of Friends of Peterborough Lido, reported that group members were “devastated” upon hearing of the proposal. She remarked: “Of course, people are very upset, very angry, but it is a proposal and not a done deal.” Ms Marshall, who has been swimming at the lido for over 50 years, characterized the lido as a “national treasure” that attracts people to the city. The lido currently stands as the city’s sole public swimming pool. The Regional Pool in Bishop’s Road is scheduled for demolition after reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (Raac) was discovered last year. Ms Marshall warned: “With no swimming pool in Peterborough, we’re creating a generation of young people who won’t learn to swim.” Susan Broccoli, founder of the community group We Love Peterborough, expressed her shock regarding the proposals. She stated: “It’s madness to take it away.” She added: “It does send a few red flags to me if they [the council] are saying they’re going to close it to do something special.” Her concern was: “That ain’t going to open again.” The proposals will undergo a public consultation period between 17 December and 14 January before being put to a vote by the council cabinet.