Lights, cameras and action at London Fields Lido official floodlight switch-on
The spectacular new floodlights at London Fields Lido form part of Hackney Council’s ongoing mission to create a happy and healthy borough, guests were told at the official switch-on ceremony yesterday (10 December).
Team GB synchronised swimmers and members of Britain's Got Talent group, Aquabatix, wowed guests at the poolside event to celebrate the official launch of the new floodlights.
The heated Lido is now open to the public between 6.30am and 9pm all year round and responds to calls from users to extend the opening hours in the winter.
We want to support people in Hackney to be happy and healthy and by installing floodlights we have made it even easier to fit a regular swim into your routine.
The lido has already proved to be one of the country's most popular pools and this new investment shows we aren't complacent about making improvements to the borough.
He gave special mention to the London Fields Lido Users Group for their untiring support for the floodlights.
As part of the celebrations, which also included a light display, speeches and music, residents were able to enjoy a free swim from 5pm.
Guest speaker Paralympic swimmer Dervis Konuralp said: “The floodlights mark a turning point for the lido. It will allow more and more people to reach their potential, young, old, able and disabled.”
Peter Bundy, Deputy Managing Director of the Council's leisure partner GLL which runs the lido, said: “The floodlights take the Lido to a higher level and takes outdoor swimming to a new dimension.”
In addition to the floodlights, lighting has been installed to the external changing cubicles and new light fittings will illuminate the entrance and cycle rack area. The underwater pool lights will also be replaced with new LED fittings.
The lighting has been carefully selected in order to minimise potential light pollution for residents and wildlife.
The Council reopened the lido in 2006 after a £2.5 million refurbishment.