Key decision-makers have unanimously approved additional funding to help secure the reopening of Stratford Park Lido this summer, following a detailed update on the project’s costs, programme and technical requirements.
The decision by Stroud District Council’s Strategy and Resources Committee on 3 June paves the way for essential works needed to bring the 90-year-old outdoor pool back into safe and compliant operation, with reopening currently targeted for summer 2026.
Councillors from all four political groups represented on the committee – Green, Labour, Conservative and Liberal Democrat – unanimously agreed to allocate an additional £276,000. This brings the total project funding to £476,000, providing the resources needed to carry out essential works to make the Lido safe, operational and compliant for public use.
The funding builds on the initial £200,000 approved in April and reflects the findings of extensive technical assessments undertaken with contractors and specialist consultants to fully scope the work required.
The approved funding will cover short-term repairs, enabling works and essential surveys designed to place the Lido in the strongest possible position for a reopening during summer 2026 and operation throughout the 2027 season. The surveys will also help inform future decisions regarding the facility’s long-term operation and investment needs.
Based on the latest programme, works are currently scheduled to complete in time for a reopening on 14 August 2026, with the potential for an earlier opening date of 29 July, subject to progress on site.
While the council remains committed to reopening the facility, it has been clear that reopening cannot be guaranteed. Delivery remains dependent on no significant additional issues being identified during the works and no major deterioration in the Lido’s condition over the winter period.
Council Leader and Chair of the Strategy and Resources Committee, Councillor Chloe Turner, said:
“Our councillors considered this decision very carefully because the funding required will have to be matched by savings elsewhere, so the debate was appropriately thorough.
“Ultimately, it was a unanimous decision, which sends a very clear message. We have listened to our community loud and clear. People want to see their Lido open again.
“This is a complex project, and the detailed work carried out by our dedicated officers and industry experts over recent weeks has given us a much clearer understanding of what is required.
“We are being honest about the challenges, but also confident that we now have a robust and deliverable plan in place.
“This funding allows us to get on with the job – carrying out essential repairs, making the site safe, and doing everything possible to welcome people back through the gates this summer.”
Alongside the current programme of works, preparations are underway to ensure the facility can operate safely once reopened, including staffing arrangements and lifeguard recruitment.
The £476,000 revenue funding agreed by the committee is separate from a proposed £900,000 capital borrowing allocation for more significant long-term improvements, which would be subject to further approval.
