Sandford Parks Lido looks to a sustainable future

A series of ambitious projects will secure Sandford Parks Lido for the next 90 years

Like many swimming facilities (especially large lidos) Sandford Parks Lido in Cheltenham must plan ahead to reduce its utility costs to ensure this iconic pool can remain financially viable. 

Sandford Parks Lido has been on a sustainability journey for a couple of years, which started with ensuring their grade II listed plantroom equipment was operating as efficiently as possible. Stage two was the introduction of their first solar panels on the plantroom roof (2023) and installing a diverter system for the large fountain at night to reduce heat loss from the swimming pool water (2024).

The third project is a large financial commitment. If they can make it happen it will produce 93% of their current electricity usage. The project involves installing solar panels on top of car ports in the car park, EV charging points and a safe pedestrian walkway through to the gates. They will also install a new substation to ensure they can have sufficient solar pv panels. Once complete, it will also enable them to complete their fourth project within the next two years which is the installation of an air source heat pump. 

Funds secured

Sandford Parks Lido has secured a grant from Sport England, with money from HM Government and the National Lottery Fund for £306,065 plus an additional £10,000 from Cheltenham Borough Council. These funds will be used directly for the solar pv system, substation and a new pool cover on the children’s pool. However, they still need to fund the car ports, EV charging, new cycle stands and the reconfiguring of the car park to install the pedestrian walkway. The Sandford Parks Lido charity has pledged £250,000 towards these costs. To fulfil grant conditions this project must be completed by March 2025.

Call to local businesses

On 17 September, local businesses are invited for a large networking event and to hear Sandford Parks Lido’s story. Hopefully, they’ll be encouraged to get behind this ambitious project. Their support could be through direct donations or to complete some of the work at a reduced rate or voluntary workforce. Sandford Parks Lido hopes to build relationships that will be beneficial for all as the lido has superb CSR opportunities within the local community and health and wellbeing opportunities for employees.

Find out more and register for the event

The charitable pledge to the lido community is to secure the lido for another 90 years.

Featured image: (c) Samuel Legge