'Hugely exciting' chapter for Hilsea Lido as new operators Sea Lanes Brighton officially take on pool following development completion

A new lease of life has been injected into the 90-year-old outdoor pool which has benefited from more than £7.75 million worth of renovation work, carried out by Portsmouth City Council, Beard Construction and Mace, over the past three years.

Today (March 23) marks the completion of the project, which was paid for by the Levelling Up Fund, with the site officially being handed over to the new operator - Sea Lanes Brighton.

Harry Smith, director of Sea Lanes, 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.

“We’ve got a little bit more work to do to add the finishing touches before we open on May 2, and then we’ll be looking ahead to phase two and understanding how the community uses the lido and what they want to see from the lido in the future as well, and then we’ll be looking at the rejuvenation of the whole site.

“We’re excited to open the doors, welcome everyone back, and start a brand‑new chapter for Hilsea Lido.”

The extensive renovation, which has seen the installation of new modular shower units, toilets and beach-themed changing huts, has involved 80 tonnes of steel reinforcement and 30 lorry-loads of concrete to strengthen the pool.

Cllr Steve Pitt, leader of Portsmouth City Council, said: “It’s a very big day for Hilsea Lido. We’ve done the official handing over to Sea Lanes and the team that are going to be operating the site. Being here and seeing just what an amazing transformation this has been for our historic lido that so many of us remember so fondly from our childhood is incredible and it’s going to be a massive opportunity for a new generation to make new memories and have a fantastic time in this outdoor environment.

“We are really looking forward to the official openin when it comes early in May and we wish Sea Lanes and the team all the best, and we do hope you enjoy what we’ve created here at Hilsea.”

Once open, Hilsea Lido is set to have a food and drink offering, with Mr Smith previously outlining plans to host a timetable of events, community activities and classes so the pool becomes the hub it once was in the city.

Duncan Anderson, CEO of South Downs Leisure, said: “It’s hugely exciting and a new chapter for the whole of the Portsmouth. When you talk to people in the local area, they’ve all got memories of Hilsea Lido and I think they can’t wait to get back and splash in this pool again.

“It looks fabulous doesn’t it? - It’s going to be incredible when it’s got people in it.”