Brighton: Scaffolding starting to be removed from Saltdean Lido

The Grade II* Saltdean Lido building has been undergoing extensive repairs since November 2021 and should be completed by autumn this year.

Scaffolding on the building is now being removed, revealing its freshly repaired and repainted east wing.

The pool will open as normal in May for its 2023 season.

View from Saltdean Lido's East deck (Image: SLCIC)

Derek Leaver, chairman of Saltdean Lido Community Interest Company (SLCIC), said: “Much of the scaffolding will be coming down either side of Easter as the tops of the wings are now watertight. This will enable the completion of the roofing work which has been waiting for the temporary structure to go.

“It will also give everyone the opportunity to follow the progress of the external works as they continue. At the lower level, double glazed replicas of the original crittall windows have been installed and the Art Decor doors around the rotunda are on order.

“The original cast iron balusters have been restored and put back and will be painted to match the windows. Behind these will be frameless glass panels to meet modern day safety regulations.

MOST READ:

• Seafront restaurant run by Masterchef winner announces closure​
• 'It looks like a shanty town' - fears houseboats at Marina will put off tourists
• De Zerbi gives update after two of his midfield stars limp out of Albion win

"Paving between the pool and the building needs to be laid, the chimney -  missing for so many years - will be completed, rainwater goods installed and, ultimately, the replica main Saltdean Lido sign put back.

“This will provide a unique backdrop to the pool and swimmers this year when the pool opens at the beginning of May.”

Inside the building, work is ongoing to complete structural work as well as installing wiring, lighting, ventilation units, kitchens and fit out toilets and other equipment.

All of the scaffolding should be removed in April (Image: SLCIC)

Building contractors Buxton started by removing asbestos from the dilapidated building.

The Save Saltdean Lido Campaign was set up in March 2010 by people in the area after plans were announced to fill in the swimming pool, develop the site extensively and create 102 flats on the historic lido.

The 40m pool tank was tackled first and reopened in 2017, attracting nearly 40,000 visitors in the first year.

The Argus was invited to see the interior just before demolition work started.

SLCIC wants the lido building to be a bustling community hub with a library, cafe/restaurant and activity spaces.