Stroud District Council has released a detailed update regarding the repair schedule for Stratford Park Lido, indicating that the outdoor pool may not reopen until mid-August 2026. The council is committed to delivering the earliest possible opening but has acknowledged that essential works prevent reopening by the initially targeted date of July 22.
Originally planned to open in late July to coincide with the start of the school summer holidays, the Lido’s reopening is now projected for August 14, with a tentative earlier date of July 29 dependent on progress and favorable weather. This timeline already represents a delayed start compared to previous years, when the Lido typically opened in May.
Essential repair work remaining includes pool lining, stainless steel fabrication and installation, water treatment, commissioning, and thorough inspection. The council stresses that these tasks are critical and cannot be expedited without compromising safety, quality, or compliance standards.
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Ahead of an extraordinary council meeting scheduled for June 3 at Ebley Mill, where an additional £276,000 funding request will be considered to support these works, preliminary on-site preparations are underway to avoid further delays. The total cost for all repairs is estimated at £476,000, supplementing a separate £900,000 capital works borrowing plan designed for broader facility improvements.
In tandem with construction efforts, the Council has organized a free National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ) course from July 13 to 18 at Active Lifestyles Dursley. This initiative aims to recruit and train lifeguards to ensure safe and effective pool operations upon reopening.
Council Leader Cllr Chloe Turner emphasized the importance of the Lido to the community and the transparent approach being taken: “This update clarifies the work and timeline ahead. Our upcoming meeting will help councillors consider the best options to reopen safely and successfully. I appreciate the dedication of council staff, local representatives, and volunteers all working toward this goal.”
Pending progress and final decisions, the council is also exploring the possibility of extending the Lido season into September to maximize community access following the delayed reopening.