The solution: Saltdean Lido restoration, Brighton

The challenge

Restoring Saltdean Lido, just outside the city of Brighton and Hove, to its former glory. Built in the 1930s, the pool had fallen into disrepair. The contractors had to deal with not only an exposed outdoor site, but the logistical nightmare of transporting water as well.

The context

Built in the 1930s, the seafront pool was opened in July 1938, facing south-east towards the sea. It was widely admired for its innovative design, which gave swimmers the impression of being on a cruise liner. Later, while unused, the space was eyed up by developers, but the community rallied from 2010 onwards and raised £3m for the lido’s restoration.

The solution

Aqua Platinum was appointed as the main swimming-pool builder for the project. Phase one involved the rebuilding of the main pool as a heated 40m swimming pool, complete with fully automatic slatted safety covers. In addition, the children’s pool was renovated, with interactive water features and slides included in the design.

The contractors were on site for 18 months and, according to Dominic Searle, senior design consultant with Aqua Platinum, the project was a first for the company, which previously dealt mainly with private clients.

Bright tiling surrounds the newly renovated children’s pool

“It was a departure for us from our work previously, but also an opportunity to engage with the community and try something new,” he says. “Most of our work in the past has been with Tier 1 contractors and there’s been loads of red tape. With this we were in total control but also had a great relationship with the community and included them in the process.”

The challenge was to keep the Grade II* listed art deco design while updating the facilities.  Treatment and movement of water was also a technical issue that needed to be overcome.

Water treatment was a technical challenge

Phase one was completed earlier this year, and the pool opened over the summer season. “It has been an honour and privilege to be involved in the restoration of such a historic lido, bringing new life to this superb Grade II* listed art deco design some 70 years since it was designed,” says Searle.

“We have worked hard together with the local residents to design amenities which meet the needs and can be enjoyed by all members of the community.”

The second phase of the project, subject to funding, will see the main building restored, with building works commencing next year.

The lido’s 40m main pool is now heated