Brand new Lido in east London gets planning permission

Plans to deliver a new Lido, the first in London for decades, have taken a significant step forward.

Last night (Wednesday, 5 June 2024), Redbridge Council's Planning Committee approved proposals to build a new Lido in Valentines Park. Construction is expected to begin later this year, and the facility is projected to be open to the public by autumn 2025, providing families with a new leisure facility to enjoy for years to come.

The brand-new facility will be close to Valentines Park's original outdoor pool, which families across East London and Essex enjoyed from 1923 to 1995. The new Lido will provide a sustainable, fun, and social place for people to exercise outdoors while boosting the local economy and restoring the heritage of Valentines Park.

The new Lido will include the following facilities:

• 25-metre six-lane swimming pool
• Cafe
• Car parking
• Changing facilities
• Children's splash pad
• Dance/exercise studio
• Gym
• Meeting room
• Outdoor recreation/picnic area

The new Lido is a testament to the Council's commitment to sustainability, utilising the latest technology, including solar panels for energy generation, air-source heat pumps, water recycling systems, and energy-efficient lighting. These features will ensure sustainability and contribute to cost-efficiency, making the Lido a responsible and economically viable project.

Mark Baigent, Corporate Director of Regeneration and Culture, said: "We're delighted we can now move forward with plans to deliver the first new Lido in London for decades.

"The old Lido in Valentines Park holds a special place in the hearts of local people. It is where families enjoyed idyllic summer days right on their doorsteps and it is so exciting that after nearly 30 years, a brand new lido and more will be introduced in the park for people to visit and create new special memories.

"As a council, we will continue to invest in leisure facilities so local families and visitors can access everything they need right on our doorstep."

Valentines Park is one of nine parks in the borough that received the prestigious Green Flag Award in 2023.