Stroud District Council has scheduled an extraordinary meeting next month to address the future of the historic Stratford Park Lido and explore the possibility of reopening it in time for the 2026 summer season.
The Lido, a beloved outdoor swimming pool that has been a cherished part of Stroud for nearly 90 years, faced uncertainty when the council revealed in March that urgent repairs estimated at around £5 million are required before it can safely reopen. Initially, the council insisted that all repairs must be completed simultaneously, meaning the Lido would remain closed throughout the summer.
However, following significant public concern and community feedback, the council has revisited this stance. Officials are now seeking ways to expedite the repair work and allow the Lido to welcome swimmers back sooner.
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To date, over £200,000 has been earmarked for repair and maintenance efforts. The Strategy and Resources Committee of the council will soon decide whether additional funds are necessary to complete the project.
Council Leader and Committee Chair Chloe Turner expressed understanding of the Lido’s importance to residents, stating, “We acknowledge how much the Lido means to our community. We have committed over £200,000 toward essential repairs already; if more funding is required, we must convene to review the situation carefully.”
Due to the urgent nature of the project, an extraordinary Strategy and Resources Committee meeting will be held on Wednesday, June 3, 2026—earlier than the regular meeting scheduled for June 18. The agenda and associated documents for this meeting will be published online on Tuesday, May 26, 2026.
While the council’s constitution prohibits motions and public questions during extraordinary meetings, members of the public are invited to observe the proceedings either in person at the Ebley Mill headquarters or via an online video link.
A detailed, costed repair plan will be made available with the committee papers on May 26, ensuring transparency as decisions about the Lido’s future are made.