Swimmers have expressed outrage following Stroud District Council’s decision to close Stratford Park Lido for the 2026 season, citing safety concerns.
The lido, which operated without incident last year, is now deemed unsafe.
A petition calling for the lido to remain open has already gathered more than 2,00 signatures in just days, highlighting the facility’s importance to the community.
Campaign spokesperson Denz Sparrow said: “If the lido is unsafe now, was it unsafe last year? And if not, what has changed? The community deserves a clear and evidence-based explanation. This isn’t just about swimming – it’s about access to exercise, wellbeing, and a space where people come together.
“We’re not against investment in the site, but closing it outright without exploring alternatives is disproportionate. Could phased repairs or interim use keep it open safely? That should be the first step.”
Currently, no publicly available safety report outlines the specific risks or changes in condition that prompted the closure. Residents argue that the council must fully explore alternatives before restricting access to a facility unique in the area.
The campaign is calling on the council to:
- Publish all relevant safety and inspection reports
- Clarify what has changed since the previous season
- Consider independent assessment where appropriate
- Reassess whether full closure is proportionate
“Stratford Park Lido is more than a pool. It’s part of our community. We’re ready to work constructively with the council, but we need transparency and evidence – the closure should not be the default solution.”
