The outdoor pool originally opened its doors back in 1935 by Portsmouth City Council but its condition significantly deteriorated over the years, making it unsafe to use.
Following multiple consultations, a multi-million pound project was launched last year to completely restore the pool to its former glory. The pool, which will open in the summer, will feature new changing rooms, new benches and tables, artwork, a fountain and, most importantly, a fully functioning outdoor swimming pool.
In the most recent updates, the pool has been completely concreted and the contractors are currently pumping water out of the pool that collected in there over Christmas.
Bright shower unit cabins have now been installed at the lido. They need to be plumbed in and have gas and electrical connections completed.
The plant room floor has been concreted, and work will start to reinforce the walls. Three filtration tanks will be installed in the plant room in due course.
85. Hilsea Lido - May 2025
Inside the tent - The team are currently screeding the top edges of the pool to create a level surface for the tiles. | PCC
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86. Hilsea Lido - May 2025
Filtration equipment has been installed in the plant room In this photo, you can see just some of the pipework that's been installed. | PCC
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87. Hilsea Lido - May 2025
The tent is now fully installed, providing protection for the pool from the weather. | PCC
88. Hilsea Lido - May 2025
The contractors are preparing this area for the final surface. In this photo you can see a trench being dug out - this is for electric cables, so the plant room has electricity. | PCC