Swimmers 'thrilled' as Lido to reopen early

Swimmers have expressed delight and relief as an outdoor pool prepares to reopen earlier than expected in its landmark 90th year.

Peterborough Lido will open on 28 March - almost two months earlier than last season - giving swimmers an extended chance to enjoy the much-loved art deco facility.

Previously, the Lido faced an uncertain future after Peterborough City Council outlined cost-cutting proposals, including mothballing the site, which costs about £400,000 a year to operate and is the city's only public pool.

Clare Marshall, from Friends of Peterborough Lido, said the group was "absolutely thrilled".

"We've been working closely with the council and Vivacity on behalf of our members, and this is something we've all been hoping for," she said.

"To gain those extra weeks, especially in the Lido's 90th year, is wonderful news."

Marshall said plans were under way to mark the anniversary, including a special commemorative book featuring archive images and material, including personal stories from swimmers past and present.

"It will reflect 90 years of memories," she said.

"And it will be launched probably by end of the March and will be sold to raise funds for the Lido, helping secure its future."

• Listen: Peterborough Lido - Keely Mills' place of peace and poetry

The heated pool traditionally operates between April and September, although recent seasons have been adjusted following the closure of the city's Regional Pool.

Proposals to install mechanical covers at the Grade II listed site have also been submitted in a bid to reduce energy costs and improve long-term sustainability.

Vivacity, which runs the pool, said on social media that it was "excited" to announce the opening date had been brought forward.

The former Peterborough Poet Laureate, Keely Mills, who also served as the Lido's resident poet in 2018 and remains a regular swimmer, said many loyal users begin counting down the days until the pool reopens each year.

"It's a testament to the amazing work of the Friends group, Vivacity and others, and to what this place means to generations of people," she said.

"I'm looking forward to that first swim of 2026 - and writing a poem or two about it."

Peterborough MP Andrew Pakes welcomed the announcement, and added that more than 37,000 people visited the facility last year.

"The Lido is one of the real jewels in our city's crown - a place where families, friends and neighbours come together," he said.

"I'm determined we keep that momentum going and make 2026 an even bigger year for this much-loved pool."

Follow Peterborough news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X.