The multi-million pound renovation of Hilsea Lido is complete, and Portsmouth City Council has handed over the keys of the site to its new operator, the team behind Sea Lanes Brighton.
Portsmouth's cherished lido has been undergone a complete overhaul, led by the council and funded by the UK Government. Extensive work has been done to fully renovate the pool, filtration equipment, and surrounding areas.
The council has worked closely with our team and consultancy company Mace on this complex project, which has involved 80 tonnes of steel reinforcement and 30 lorry-loads of concrete being brought in to strengthen the pool. Modular shower units and toilets have been installed, including a Changing Places toilet, and beach-themed changing huts.
The team at Sea Lanes Brighton is a passionate group of local businesses and open-water swimming enthusiasts who will partner with South Downs Leisure to steward the regeneration of Hilsea Lido. Together, their shared vision is to create an environmentally sustainable, inclusive, and accessible leisure destination for all to enjoy.
The Sea Lanes team plans to bring their significant expertise to Hilsea Lido and will open the doors on Saturday 2 May, with the introduction of a sauna, along with a pop-up food and beverage offer to complement the unheated pool. They will also operate the splash pool next to the lido, unifying both sides of the historic site for the first time in many years.
Cllr Steve Pitt, Leader of Portsmouth City Council said: "I'm absolutely over the moon to be standing here at the renovated Hilsea Lido, handing the keys over to such an excellent operator. Everyone working on this project has worked incredibly hard to obtain the funding, plan the development, and make it all happen. This, along with the KGV football complex and coastal defence work being carried out, is helping to transform the north of the city.
"As a council, we are committed to investing in sport across Portsmouth because of the clear physical and mental benefits that physical activity brings. We are looking forward to seeing the lido thrive under the care of a very experienced team."
Harry Smith, Sea Lanes, Director said: "We’re absolutely thrilled to receive the keys to Hilsea Lido. It’s an honour to be trusted with such an iconic and much-loved local landmark, and we can’t wait to bring the site back to life for the community.
"Over the next few weeks we’ll be adding the final finishing touches so that everything is ready for people to quite literally jump in from 2 May. We’re excited to open the doors, welcome everyone back, and start a brand‑new chapter for Hilsea Lido."
Ollie Chun, Southampton office lead
Ollie continued: "This project has been a truly collaborative effort, and we extend our sincere thanks and congratulations to everyone involved. We are delighted to have worked in close partnership with Portsmouth City Council and its various departments throughout the programme. The commitment, effort and shared vision shown by all stakeholders has been exceptional.
"Hilsea Lido is an important social and recreational asset for the community, and we are honoured to have played a part in supporting its future.”
To find out more about the operators plans and sign up for news updates, visit hilsealido.co.uk.
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