Hilsea Lido

We’re redeveloping Hilsea Lido as part of the Hilsea Lines project in the north of the city to encourage residents and visitors to visit the area.

Over the Spring and Summer of 2022, we consulted with over 2,000 people in the local community to ask their opinions on improvements to the lido.

Using residents’ top results, we’ve put together eight pledges for Hilsea Lido, which are:

1. Open the lido more often for everyone to enjoy
2. Explore the potential of heating at least part of the pool
3. Include a food and drink facility
4. Provide play equipment and a diverse range of activities and events
5. Make the lido welcoming and accessible to everyone
6. Improve shower, toilet and changing facilities
7. Create a well-maintained, attractive, and fun facility
8. To make the lido as affordable as possible

The pledges have been given to our contractors, Mace and Space-Place, to incorporate within the design plans for the Hilsea Lido and surrounding area, where possible.

We received additional levelling up funding from the government for artists to create an 80-metre-long wall of art on the hoardings around the lido, to represent the city of Portsmouth, and the different elements of the Hilsea Lines project, which includes Hilsea Lido, Foxes Forest and enhancing walking and cycling routes in the north of the city.

World-renowned street artist My Dog Sighs repainted his popular ‘eyes’ artwork on the lido wall, in collaboration with Portsmouth-based street artist Fark, whose art focuses on spreading positivity; along with other local artists who created their own style of art, from whimsical figures to graffiti-style, and images that reflect the sea and the nautical nature of our city.

Site surveys are underway, to help inform the design plans and costings.

The pool is being drained so that a structural survey can be carried out, which is an important step in understanding the condition of the pool tank and will inform the refurbishment works needed to bring the pool up to a good condition.

To be kept updated on our plans for Hilsea Lido, as part of Hilsea Lines, sign up to receive the Hilsea Lines e-bulletin.