The future of Stratford Park Lido could be back on track, with council leader Chloe Turner signalling a potential turnaround.
The much-loved facility was earmarked not open this summer and could remain closed indefinitely, the council has warned, citing an estimated £5 million needed for essential refurbishment work.
However, Cllr Turner’s statement appears to have thrown a lifeline to campaigners wanting to keep the pool afloat: “There is now significant work underway to take another look at the costs and other barriers to reopening the pool in the short term and to understand whether there is any scope for reconsideration.”
She added that a full reassessment of the pool’s condition and infrastructure is being commissioned to determine the investment needed for a sustainable future: “At the same time, we are commissioning a full reassessment of the condition of the pool and its infrastructure. This will help reconfirm the level of investment needed to secure a sustainable future for the lido. Importantly, what that future should look like is not something to be decided behind closed doors – it is something we must shape together with the community.”
Over the past week, Cllr Turner has been engaging with the public, listening to views and concerns raised during the Community Services & Licensing Committee, as well as from the Friends of the Lido and the Save Stroud Lido campaign group, she added: “Over the past week, my main focus has been listening. Following last week’s Community Services & Licensing Committee and the first stage of scrutiny on the lido, I’ve heard from many people across the community. I’m really grateful to everyone who has taken the time to share their views, frustrations, insights and, above all, their affection for the pool.
“I’ve also really valued the opportunity to meet with the Friends of the Lido and the Save Stroud Lido campaign group. These conversations gave us the chance to reflect together on the committee meeting and on the strength of the wider community response. Hearing directly from those so closely involved has helped shape how we approach the next stage of the democratic process, with the aim of responding thoughtfully and meaningfully to the concerns that have been raised.
“Thanks to the Save Stroud Lido group, we have also benefited from a site visit by the pool plant expert from Portishead Lido, alongside valuable expertise from within our own community. This additional perspective has been extremely helpful. No decisions have been made at this stage, and that is very deliberate. The planned gap between committees exists precisely to allow time for reflection, further examination and careful consideration of the options.
She acknowledged the community’s frustration and disappointment but praised the strong public engagement: “I know there has been frustration, disappointment and anger, and those feelings are understandable. At the same time, it has been encouraging to see such strong public engagement and willingness to get involved. We are listening, and I hope that will be reflected in what happens next.
“I’m thankful for the continued offers of support, for the respectful way people have engaged, and for the care shown to everyone involved. We all live here, we all care deeply about this place, and I hope we can find a positive way forward together.”
The Community Services and Licensing Committee’s recommendations will be considered by the Strategy and Resources Committee on Thursday April 16 and at the subsequent full council meeting on Thursday April 30.
