Following extensive repair works to ensure its safety, Stratford Park Lido in Stroud reopens to swimmers this August 2026.
Major concerns about the nearly 90-year-old pool's condition were raised during technical surveys in March.
Stroud District Council estimated that the required works would cost £5.1 million, which it could not afford to fund, and announced that the pool would not open at all in 2026.
In April, the council unanimously agreed to approve £200,000 of funding to go towards repairs, then in June its initial decision to remain closed was overturned, following an outpouring of support from the community and celebrities including Mary Portas, Edith Bowman, Dale Vince and Tweedy, with the council approving a downgraded repair plan and an additional £276,000 of funding, to ensure the beloved pool could open for at least some of the 2026 summer season.
Short-term repair works included relining and repainting the 55-yard-long pool tank, refurbishing the pool pump and the baby pool, repointing walls and paving, and installing temporary fencing to cordon off unprotected drops.
Campaigners from Save Our Lido have also created a striking new mural outside the pool's entrance, and there's now a new cafe selling snacks and drinks next door to the entry kiosk, too.
Stroud District Council thanked the community, council staff, and its contractor Beard Construction for their efforts in getting the pool up to a standard where it was safe to open again, even in spite of challenging weather conditions and extreme heat.
Council leader, Chloe Turner, said: 'We are so pleased to be welcoming swimmers back to Stratford Park Lido this weekend. The lido is a much-loved part of our district's heritage and community life, and we know residents will be delighted to see it reopen.'
Stratford Park Lido is open for lane and public swimming sessions from Saturday 15 August 2026 until the end of the season in September.
The baby pool is also open during public swimming sessions, with additional baby sessions from 10am until 12pm on Fridays in August.
Swimmers can book sessions via the Active Lifestyles website to guarantee access, or pay for admission on arrival.
Plans for the lido's long-term future remain in development, SoGlos will continue to follow developments closely, publishing further coverage as new information is confirmed.
