Celebrations planned for Lido's 90th anniversary

A city's Lido is gearing up to celebrate its 90th year as it reopens to the public for the season.

Peterborough Lido on Bishop's Road opened on Saturday, nearly two months earlier than last year.

The Grade II listed open-air pool previously faced a threat of closure after the city council proposed mothballing the art-deco site in order to save £400,000 in annual running costs.

Operators Vivacity said around 500 people had booked a session on the opening weekend and several events are planned in the coming months as part of the celebrations.

The heated swimming pool is usually open between April and September, although its season was extended following the closure of the city's regional pool.

This year, retractable mechanical covers have been installed to help reduce energy costs.

Clare Marshall, from Friends of Peterborough Lido, said plans to mark the anniversary included a special commemorative book featuring archive images and personal stories from swimmers past and present.

"It will reflect 90 years of memories," she said. "It will be sold to raise funds for the Lido, helping secure its future."

Vivacity added that Peterborough Museum is hosting an exhibition on the history of the Lido from 16 April.

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