Options discussed for future of town's historic lido

An historic lido could become the property of its community or town council after its future was discussed at a meeting.

Stratford Park Lido may not open for the start of its summer next season next month after a risk assessment carried out by Stroud District Council found cracks and corrosion

At a meeting on Monday, the public and councillors debated proposals, including the lido becoming the property of Stroud Town Council or the community.

Chloe Turner, leader of Stroud District Council, which currently owns the lido, said its future would be "much safer in community hands".

The meeting was held at St Laurence Church after Stroud Town Council received 100 written requests for the chance to discuss the lido's future.

Town and district councillors, friends of Stratford Lido, and Save Our Lido Campaign Group members discussed setting up a working group on Monday to consider the lido's future.

Its first meeting is scheduled for Monday 27 April.

Sue Pete uses the lido several times a week and said she'd be "lost" without it.

"For me, the important thing is that we save it," she said.

"I think it's so good for mental health, for physical health, for community, as well as the historic aspect of it.

"We shouldn't be losing these vital buildings and places for community engagement."

Stratford Park Lido was built at a cost of £20,000 on council-owned land in 1937.

Stroud District Council said its Strategy and Resources Committee has agreed to fund up to £200,000 to investigate the possibility of the lido reopening.

A spokesperson added it is "too early" to say what the Lido's long-term future arrangement may be but said it will work "constructively" with Stroud Town Council, residents and volunteer groups.

"Any asset transfer of the Lido to another body would require detailed legal, financial and governance discussions, including clarity on responsibility for repairs, ongoing liabilities and long term funding arrangements," they added.

"No decisions have been taken, and any proposal would need to demonstrate that the Lido could be maintained safely and sustainably."

Stroud Town Council said it did not want to comment until it had reviewed the motions.

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