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.
145. Hilsea Lido - September 2024
Portsmouth City Council has issued an update on the progress of Hilsea Lido. Pictured: The base of the pool full of steel bars, ready for the final concrete pour. | Portsmouth City Council
146. Hilsea Lido - September 2024
Portsmouth City Council has issued an update on the progress of Hilsea Lido. Pictured: The backwash tank fitted into place – this will be covered but will be accessible by a manhole cover. | Portsmouth City Council
147. Hilsea Lido - September 2024
Portsmouth City Council has issued an update on the progress of Hilsea Lido. Pictured: The 10.5m long backwash tank being lifted into place. | Portsmouth City Council
148. Hilsea Lido: Concrete Pour - August 2024
The team have continued to pour concrete into the bottom of the pool, with another 750mm to go on the level shown above. The 'pressure release wells' that the team saw in last fortnight's bulletin have mainly been covered up. Once finished, the pool will be 2.6m deep at the lowest point. Once this is complete, the first of the stainless steel dowels will go in to reinforce the pool, before it is re-lined. | Portsmouth City Council