Saltdean Lido operator invites public to see behind the scenes

The company behind the £5 million refurbishment of Saltdean Lido is inviting the public to take a tour behind the scenes this weekend.

The Saltdean Lido Community Interest Company (CIC) said that it was opening the gates to the public on Saturday (7 June) for the first time in years.

The CIC, which recently took over the lido on a 60-year lease, is holding a Heritage Day including a Wine and Beer Festival in the grounds from 11am to 4pm.

Tours of the site would enable people to learn more about the story of Britain’s only grade II* listed lido.

The company said: “The original plant room from the 1930s will be accessed as well as the stunning roof rotunda terraces, not open to the public for over 10 years.

“This is a chance for the public to view the grounds, find out about the history of Saltdean Lido and view what’s going to be taking place over the next few years.

“This is the first time in many years the general public have had access to the grounds and it’s almost certainly going to be the last time before we close for major refurbishment works.”

Entry is free although the CIC said that it hoped those going along would donate £1 towards the cost of the refurbishment that is about to start.

The CIC has also organised two evening events on Friday (6 June) and Saturday (7 June).

Local breweries and vineyards will showcase their produces on both evenings with sparkling wine, ales, ciders and beers on offer – and live music.

The doors open at 6pm on both evenings with tickets costing £7.50. To buy tickets, visit http://saltdeanlido.co.uk/2014-beer-wine-festival.

The CIC said: “The weekend is the commencement of a £5 million refurbishment fundraising programme which will see the lido closed fully for 12 for 18 months while works take place.

“The site will then reopen in 2016, restored back to its former glory with heated water for the pool, new meeting room space, an all-year round café and bar as well as a new gym and outside recreational spaces including beach volleyball.”