Historic lido could reopen for six weeks

Swimmers could return to a historic lido this summer if key safety works are carried out, council chiefs have said.

In its latest update, Stroud District Council said "focus remains" on completing essential works by 22 July to allow for a shorter six-week season to begin at Stratford Park Lido.

Meanwhile, the founder of energy firm Ecotricity, Dale Vince, has said he would be willing to help fund some of the upgrades, after it was initially reported that the facility would not open this summer.

The millionaire, who lives in Stroud, said: "If the council didn't have all of that money, I'd be interested to help, but I haven't been asked."

The council revealed in February the lido requires £5m of works. At the time it said the pool would not reopen this summer and could be closed indefinitely.

This prompted protests from swimmers and the creation of the Save Stroud Lido group.

Campaigners dispute the £5m figure and claim repairs to reopen the attraction can be carried out for a fraction of the cost.

They accuse the council of aiming for a "super shiny" facility, rather than focusing on finding a way to "keep it open".

Vince is a supporter of the campaign and wants to ensure any works carried out represent value for money.

"The campaigners say it can be done for £100,000 in time for this summer, which I think is the most important thing," he added.

The lido, which has been closed since September 2025, was built at a cost of £20,000 on council-owned land in 1937.

A risk assessment conducted in February found major hazards at the site, including a cracked foundation and excessive corrosion in the pipe work and pool tank.

Earlier council reports laid out four options for the outdoor pool which include closing it permanently, carrying out £5m of "minimum works" to reopen it, investing £8m to build a splash pad and café, or spending £10m to create a wellness garden, heat rooms, hydrotherapy space, ice baths, relaxation area and splash pad.

The BBC has approached the council for a comment.

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