Stratford Park Lido is set to open for the summer of 2026 after what campaigners are calling a victory for ‘people power’.
Stroud District Council performed a U-turn last night, following a unanimous decision by the council’s Strategy and Resources Committee this evening, to approve the funding needed to reopen Stratford Park Lido this August.
The committee agreed additional funding of £276,000 to undertake essential maintenance work at the popular outdoor pool, with the money coming from previous years’ underspend on the lido budget.
The decision marks a major victory for residents following months of community campaigning after councillors initially voted to close the lido in March.
Campaigners say the decision demonstrates the strength of community support for Stratford Park Lido and marks the beginning of work to secure its future for generations to come.
The campaign attracted widespread public support, including a petition signed by more than 4,000 people, hundreds of emails to councillors, flash mobs, a shop window competition, and backing from high-profile supporters including Mary Portas.
Pictures by Simon Pizzey
