As a decision on the future of the much-cherished Stratford Park Lido is set to be discussed tonight, a prominent Stroud business figure has set out a detailed case for why the pool should be protected, citing heritage, planning, and public health grounds.
Andrew Watton, a chartered surveyor and land agent with more than 40 years’ experience in Stroud, has written to the town’s MP, Dr Simon Opher, urging consideration of stronger protections for the site.
In his letter, he said: “I am writing to you as the MP for Stroud regarding the current concerns over the future of the Lido at Stratford Park as reported in our local Press and Media.
“I am aware that the resolution announced by Stroud District Council has not been well received by the people of Stroud and the Valleys.
“I will leave the wider Stroud Community to bring forward their thoughts and criticisms as to the shock announcement which has come forth from SDC. Rather I wish to raise my specific concern.
“I moved into the Stroud area in 1976. As a Chartered Surveyor I joined what was then called Luce Panes & Co (merged in 1980 to form Sandoe Luce Panes). By 1978 I had relocated to live in Nailsworth. When I arrived, both Stroud and Nailsworth were not the nationally acclaimed locations we see today. Indeed, Stroud town centre was in part derelict following the ill-thought-out road scheme for the town centre which had blighted the shopping centre.
“The Stroud Valleys has a rich history in the Cloth Mills which were created to harness the indigenous assets found in the environs. Cotswold stone, natural water courses including Springs, Fullers Earth, Teazles etc. Thus, the ingredients for the birth of the numerous water mills many of which have survived through to current times. Of particular note is the quality of the Spring Water which is seen as a unique ingredient to the cloth – the most famous example being the Tennis Ball Cloth produced in Lodgemoor Mill.
“How does this have a bearing upon the Stroud Lido?
“The answer starts with The Mansion at Stratford Park, and which now houses to the Museum in the Park (based upon the Cowle Trust). The Mansion dates back to 1672 and was part of the Estate which included Stratford Mill originally a Cloth/Woolen Mill (now the location for Tesco in Stratford Road). Within the current grounds of Stratford Park lies the Stroud Leisure Centre itself adjacent to the Stroud Lido. Thus, the Lido is located within the curtilage of Stratford Park Mansion and grounds. This therefore means that the grounds are ostensibly to the benefit of the Setting of a Listed Building. As you will be aware this is significant in planning matters.
“This then brings me to a simple question. Surely the Stroud Lido should be Listed in its own right? I note that the Sandford Park Lido in Cheltenham is Listed (in 2003). Although the two Lidos are not overly comparable it is clear to me that the Art Deco features of Stroud Lido are of national importance. Perhaps consideration should be given to a ‘Spot Listing’ by English Heritage?
“Not only would this save an architectural gem it would also ensure that this Emblem of the Stroud Valleys significance is amplified. I say this because the indigenous assets of the Stroud Valleys are personified at Stratford Park. This is particularly true of the Stroud Lido. A Lido fed by a natural water spring (same as the Mills). In my opinion this supports a claim for National Heritage.
“To lose this Asset through the short-sighted vision by Stroud District Council would be on a par with the High Street debacle in the 1970’s with the then proposed demolition of Listed buildings. Similar to the proposed Demolition of the Hill Paul building which when built was the tallest “factory” in Gloucestershire. We managed to save the Hill Paul building. Once fully restored the residential conversion was heralded by the CEO of SDC as a “Beacon of Regeneration”.
“In truth I could cite many more examples; but I can do no more than recommend you find a copy of the book published in 2013 by the Stroud Preservation Trust entitled “Stroud – A Town Changed by Community Action” written by Camilla Hale and Dominique Shead. Numerous examples of how our Community consistently comes together to safeguard what is important for our local wellbeing.
“In closing, I would urge Stroud District Council to adopt a more pragmatic approach to Assets for which they are our Custodians. Their record is not overly encouraging with the example of losing Rush Skate Park in recent times from Brimscombe Port or indeed the current consideration of losing the Cheapside Car Park to housing development with the consequential damage to the vitality and vibrancy of Stroud town centre.
“With the potential status of a Grade II Listed Building, the Stroud Lido sitting within the Grounds of Stratford Park would be a candidate for Funding in respect of both health and heritage criteria.”
