Pontypridd Lido set to open in the summer

Work is well underway for a big splash next summer. Credit: rctcbc.gov.uk

Pontypridd Lido’s multi-million restoration project continues to gain momentum as the historic site is transformed into a Wales-wide visitors’ destination, says Rhondda Cynon Taf Council.

The Lido, at Ynysangharad War Memorial Park, is one of the largest and most historic in the UK. Its £6m restoration is due for completion in summer 2015. ITV Cymru Wales has had a sneak peek at what's going on.

Built in 1927 in an arts and crafts style the lido has a distinctive Mediterranean influence and with its swimming pool, bath gallery and changing rooms the lido complex is unusually large, accommodating up to 1000 people in its heyday.

During the post-war years the lido remained a popular attraction for the local community but by the early 1980s the complex fell into decline and was closed in 1991.

The re-opening will see:

  • Restoration of the original turnstiles and wooden cubicles

  • The lido will be heated with three pools: a main pool, an activities pool, and a paddling pool

  • Free entry for children aged 12 or under with an adult

  • A café

  • A community hub centre

  • A new modern changing block

  • A state of the art adventure play ground

WATCH: Sarah Hibbard has a sneak preview of what the reopened lido will offer.

Cllr Ann Crimmings says the restoration of the Lido will create a regional tourist attraction for Pontypridd.

An image of what the adventure playground will look like. Credit: rctcbc.gov.uk
Cllr Ann Crimmings says the lido will attract tens of thousands to the town. Credit: rctcbc.gov.uk
Credit: rctcbc.gov.uk

The restoration project means as much of the original lido is being saved as possible. That includes the wooden doors to the changing rooms which can take up to 12 hours to fully repair.

In total there were almost 90 cubicles in the original Lido - although some were demolished or vandalised beyond repair. The vision, says the council, is to help preserve the buildings of the past for future generations.

The restoration of the Grade II-listed Lido is funded by £3m from the European Regional Development Fund through the Welsh Government, £2.3million from the Heritage Lottery Fund, a £900,000 contribution from Rhondda Cynon Taf Council, and a £100,000 contribution from Cadw.