Ware Priory Lido reopens after major refurbishment

More positive lido news! Ware Priory Lido in Hertfordshire reopened this week following a £1m refurbishment.

Now that we’re well and truly into the season, it feels like every other week another lido or open water space is re-opening and welcoming swimmers into the water. Considering the vast pressures on the leisure industry at the moment, it’s certainly something to be celebrated. 

Ware Priory Lido in Hertfordshire re-opened this week following a £1M refurbishment. The lido closed during 2022 while essential works took place to the 30m main pool and the separate teaching pool. 

On Tuesday, lido supporters, swimming club members, councillors and local children were invited to try out the new pool. The lido then officially opened to the public on Wednesday 14 June, with an early morning lane swimming session at 6am.

The first stage of renovation

Situated in the grounds of Ware Priory, the lido was originally built in 1934 for the sum of £4,132. In addition to swim sessions, the lido also offers private hire for swim clubs, schools, community groups, functions and parties.

Funding from Ware Town Council and the Public Work Loan Board allowed for major repairs, pipework replacement and new features including air source heat pumps, a new cover and UV disinfection. Plans are in place to address other areas highlighted at the public consultation held last year, namely seating, shade and showers. 

The next stage of work will begin during the closed season from October 2023, starting with installing new showers with increased hot water capacity. The changing rooms will be refurbished with the main focus on new non-slip flooring. The poolside will be landscaped to provide an attractive setting with seating and shade. Additional landscaping will take place at the front of the building. If possible, the town council will aim to purchase some of the new seating and shade for the current season. 

“We are delighted we have been able to make this community asset even better than before and ensure it is available for future generations,” said Terry Philpott, Town Clerk of Ware Town Council. 

Tickets for sessions are now bookable on the website here.

Photos: @WareTownCouncil