Historic lido will be able to open over winter

A historic lido should be able to stay open over the winter months when the construction of a new heated pool house is completed.

Wivey Pool in Wiveliscombe, Somerset, was given planning permission for a £250,000 development - which will include a cafe, toilet and space for lifeguards - on 25 July.

The proposals were approved despite some objections over the impact the development could have on the look of the neighbouring war memorial recreation ground.

A Somerset Council planning officer said the benefits to the community outweighed the harm the development could cause in the conservation area. The pool's trustees hope the project will be finished by spring 2026.

Mike Davis, a trustee at the community pool, said there was "a big call for cold water swimming" and the new development would extend the pool's swimming season.

Around £233,000 of a £250,000 target for the project has been raised so far, Mr Davis said.

He added: "It's a great achievement, it's a community pool so we have a lot of activities.

"It's great to see kids come in, we teach them to swim and later on they become lifeguards."

Work on the project is due to start over the winter.

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