New tenant sought for ‘iconic’ 90-year-old Hilsea Lido amid extensive renovation works

As the historic Hilsea Lido undergoes a major renovation project, efforts are being made to find a new tenant for the leisure destination.

Real estate firm Avison Young is working with Portsmouth City Council to bring the 1930s open-air swimming pool to market ahead of its reopening next summer.

Ongoing works include the total refurbishment of the 67-metre pool and surroundings, with new outdoor changing facilities and showers – as well as extensive landscaping.

Richard Baldwin, director at Avison Young, said: “We’re delighted to be working with the council on this important historical leisure project.

“It’s rewarding to see such an important community asset being brought back to life.

“We’re now seeking all expressions of interest for a long-term tenant operator who shares the council’s vision to promote Hilsea Lido’s use as a hub for the people of Portsmouth, encouraging people to swim, children to learn and families to play.

“The lido will be transformed into a much needed and loved asset for the people of Portsmouth, and we’re delighted to play a part in its reopening.”

The works come in the wake of Swim England’s new ‘Don’t Cap Swimming’ campaign, which found that more than 1,500 pools in England are over four decades old and in need of funding for renovation.

They’re part of the government-funded Hilsea Lines project to improve the local area – which also introduced a new and improved terminal at Portsmouth International Port last year.

Cllr Steve Pitt, leader of Portsmouth City Council, added: “Hilsea Lido is an iconic Portsmouth attraction which is now receiving some much-needed TLC to get it open so it can be enjoyed by residents and visitors alike.

“Our work will ensure the pool will open next year with modern changing facilities ready for the 90th anniversary of the lido.

“We’ll work closely with the appointed operator to enable future phases of renovation work so we can create a real ‘jewel in the crown’ of the wider Hilsea Lines project.

“We’re committed to sport in this city, so we see this a real opportunity to offer open-air swimming and other water-based activities in a safe and unique environment.”