London,
30
August
2017
|
12:37
Europe/London

London Fields Lido will re-open on 30 September 2017

The refurbished Lido will feature brand new changing rooms and reception area after closing in April for unavoidable repairs. Hackney Council had to close the Lido after tiles started to crack and come away from the pool wall. Tests carried out by industry specialists identified a problem with the screed layer between the pool tank and the render holding the tiles, and confirmed that all the tiles, screed and render would need to be removed and replaced.

The Council used the closure of the Lido as an opportunity to completely refurbish the indoor changing rooms and main reception area. The new changing rooms will maintain separate male and female changing areas and provide for indoor storage lockers, showers, mirrors and hair dryers. There will also be improved private changing cubicles and family change and baby change facilities.

Unforeseen challenges are an inherent part of the construction process – in this case the work was delayed by difficulties removing the material beneath the tiles and digging out the slab. Diamond-tipped cutting equipment and a specialist excavator were used to finish the job, extra staff were brought in and the refurbishment is currently on schedule to be completed by 30 September.

Cllr Jon Burke, Cabinet Member for Energy, Sustainability and Community Services
Cllr Jon Burke, Cabinet Member for Energy, Sustainability and Community Services said:

I am delighted that returning and new users will be able to enjoy better, more modern and accessible facilities when it reopens on 30 September; and obviously we will reopen it sooner if we can.

I understand that people were disappointed that the Lido had to close, and it is frustrating that some delays were encountered throughout the renovations. Delays are not uncommon with complicated building work but we have been working very hard with the contractor to re-open the Lido as quickly as possible. Extra workers and specialist equipment has been brought in and a canopy built over the pool so the works can continue when it rains. My priority is to ensure the works are completed to the highest standard possible, to provide a long-term, sustainable future for this important community asset.
Cllr Jon Burke, Cabinet Member for Energy, Sustainability and Community Services