London Fields Lido forced to close until next spring for ‘urgent repairs’

London Fields Lido. Photograph: Peter Smith (Wiki Commons)

The popular London Fields Lido is to shut from the end of November until next spring so Hackney Council can carry out “urgent” maintenance.

Temporary barriers were installed for the busy summer season after tiles started to crack and fall away from the pool wall.

Industry specialists have now advised the council to replace all the tiles, screed and render.

The Town Hall confirmed it will use the closure as an opportunity to splash out on modernising the Lido’s facilities.

Community services chief Cllr Jon Burke said: “Although we are disappointed at being forced to close the Lido for urgent repairs, we have decided to take advantage of this unavoidable closure to refurbish the indoor changing rooms and reception area.

“This means swimmers will be able to enjoy better, more modern facilities when the Lido reopens next year.”

Pre-paid members will still be able to swim – at no further cost – at Britannia, Clissold and Kings Hall Leisure Centres.

They can also use the London Aquatics Centre in the Olympic Park, Charlton Lido, and any other swimming pool managed by Better, as well as the new health and fitness facilities in Queensbridge Community Centre.

Memberships can be frozen during the closure until the Lido reopens next year.