Refurbished lido reopens under charity management

Beccles Lido, an outdoor swimming facility run by a charity in Suffolk, has reopened to visitors after a significant upgrade to its plant room. The pool had been closed since October while its filter tanks, in service since 1975, were replaced.

The refurbishment, costing 350,000, introduced a modern microfiltration system, which the management says will help lower operational expenses. Matt Day, 32, the lidos general manager, explained that the improvements will allow them to keep entry fees more affordable by using "less water, fewer chemicals, and reduced gas for heating."

The project received 280,000 from the governments Community Ownership Fund. Additionally, Garfield Western contributed 25,000, enabling the lido to select a more sustainable and advanced filtration solution. "We could invest in a higher-quality system that keeps the water cleaner and makes our operations greener," Day noted.

The new system was installed over a two-month period, during which the lido remained closed. Alongside the filtration upgrade, last year the facility added numerous solar panels and a heated all-weather canopy to provide comfort during colder months. The chemical control and chlorination systems were also modernized. "The new setup purifies the water far more efficiently than the old sand filters," Day said.

To enhance visitor experience, the lido plans to maintain water temperatures at 18C this winter, with occasional increases to 25C as a treat for swimmers after the reopening.

Analysis of the Beccles Lido Upgrade: A Step Toward Sustainability and Affordability

The recent reopening of Beccles Lido, after a substantial £350,000 upgrade to its plant room, marks a significant step in modernizing the facility while ensuring that its operations remain environmentally and financially sustainable. The new microfiltration system, which replaced outdated filters dating back to 1975, is expected to drastically improve the efficiency of water purification, reducing operational costs and energy consumption.

One of the key benefits of the upgrade, as explained by Matt Day, the general manager, is the ability to keep entry fees affordable for the public. By using less water, fewer chemicals, and reducing the amount of gas required for heating, the lido aims to pass savings onto visitors while maintaining a high standard of service. This is a notable example of how environmental improvements can align with financial benefits, providing a model for other public leisure facilities to follow.

The funding for this project came from a combination of government support through the Community Ownership Fund (£280,000) and a contribution from Garfield Western (£25,000), which allowed for the installation of a more advanced and sustainable filtration system. This investment also reflects a broader trend in the UK toward improving public amenities with an eye toward long-term environmental sustainability.

Alongside the filtration system, the lido has made further investments in green technology, such as installing solar panels and a heated all-weather canopy. These upgrades are designed to improve comfort for swimmers during colder months, ensuring that the facility can be enjoyed year-round. The modernization of the chemical control and chlorination systems further enhances water quality, ensuring that the lido remains a safe and appealing option for visitors.

In conclusion, the upgrades at Beccles Lido provide a clear example of how modern technology can improve both environmental sustainability and operational efficiency. With reduced operational costs and a commitment to greener practices, the facility is well-positioned to offer an affordable and enjoyable experience to the community for years to come.

Sources:

• Charity-run lido reopens after refurbishment