UK's Oldest Lido, Cleveland Pools, Faces Uncertain Future After Storm Damage
Cleveland Pools, the UK's oldest lido, has been closed since 2023 following storm damage. Despite a £10million revamp, its future remains uncertain due to substantial repair costs.
Originally opened in the early 1800s, Cleveland Pools closed in 1984 and remained shut for decades. A major campaign and £10million in funding led to its reopening in 2023. However, heavy rainfall during Storm Henk caused flood damage to the plantroom, leading to its closure once again just four months later.
The Cleveland Pools Trust, supported by local volunteers and heritage groups, has been working on restoring and reopening the lido. Funding has been provided through grants from the National Lottery Heritage Fund and other public and private sources, amounting to several million pounds. Despite these efforts, the trustees revealed that it might not be possible to reopen the pool due to substantial repair costs. The Grade II listed lido, which once hosted galas and competitions, may never reopen.
Cleveland Pools, the oldest outdoor swimming pool in the UK, has fallen into disrepair two years after closing due to storm damage. The trustees are currently finalising repair costs and seeking external funding for restoration. Another lido in Tynemouth is also seeking funding partners for its own restoration.
