Preparations made for Peterborough Lido re-opening

The outdoor pool in Bishop’s Road was closed for the entirety of 2020 due to the coronavirus pandemic.

last week, Boris Johnson set out a timeline for easing restrictions which would allow the popular attraction to open in time for its traditional slot in May, and although no decision has been made yet on when to allow swimmers back in works are ongoing to get the pool ready.

A Peterborough City Council report, which was written before the Government road map was announced, states: “In readiness for the summer season works have started to re-commission and prepare the Lido for opening as soon as we are able to.

“The Lido takes several weeks to prepare and hasn’t operated since 2019 so starting early means the building, plant and equipment can be thoroughly inspected and serviced in good time for re-opening.

“The Lido is a well-known landmark and cherished community facility which has undoubtedly been missed by many people. It is hoped that subject to the Government reducing restrictions a full season of uninterrupted activity will be possible.”

Asked whether the Lido will be open during its regular May to September season, a council spokesperson said: “We are now reviewing all the guidance in light of the latest Government announcement and will provide further information shortly.”

The outdoor pool transferred from not-for-profit trust Vivacity to city council-run Peterborough Limited last year due to the financial impact of the coronavirus pandemic.

And both Peterborough Limited and senior council officers have expressed an “aspiration and ambition” to keep the pool open 12 months a year through new commercial ventures.