Exciting improvements are coming to Guildford Lido this March as three brand-new, state-of-the-art pool covers are installed.
This project marks a major step forward in improving energy efficiency, reducing water loss and securing the long-term sustainability of Guildford Lido.
Key Dates
-
On-site work starts: Monday 16th March
-
No morning Lane Swimming: Friday 20th March
-
Swimathon: 20th, 21st & 22nd March (going ahead as planned)
-
Pool closed: 23rd, 24th & 25th March
-
Pool reopens as normal: Thursday 26th March
What to Expect During Installation
While we are working hard to minimise disruption, there will be some temporary changes during the installation period:
- Lane and public swimming sessions will operate with reduced lane availability at various times on different days throughout the installation period.
- There will be no morning Lane Swimming on Friday 20th March to allow for Swimathon to take place safely.
- The pool will be fully closed on 23rd, 24th and 25th March to allow safe completion and commissioning of the system.
A Greener Future for Guildford Lido
Guildford Borough Council has secured full funding from a Surrey County Council decarbonisation grant to deliver this important upgrade. Following extensive site surveys, investigatory works and a detailed feasibility study, three high-performance pool covers will be installed. These covers are designed to:
- Significantly reduce heat loss overnight
- Reduce water evaporation
- Lower overall energy consumption
- Cut carbon emissions
- Improve the long-term viability of winter swimming
This investment builds on the significant refurbishment completed in recent years, which has helped to modernised the site and transformed the changing facilities. Work that was recently recognised at the Guildford Design Awards 2025. Together, these improvements ensure the Lido remains a cherished local landmark for generations to come.
What System Is Being Installed?
The new covers will be housed within a low-level modular bench system, specifically designed for lidos. This system is constructed from high-grade stainless steel with a durable composite hardwood top, creating a strong, weather-resistant housing unit that sits neatly along the poolside. When the covers are not deployed, they are safely stored within the bench structure, keeping the pool environment tidy and protecting the cover material.
Key benefits of this system include:
- Designed specifically for large commercial pools and outdoor facilities
- Robust, long-lasting construction suitable for year-round use
- Modular design allowing efficient delivery and installation
- Easy to operate and maintain
The system has been carefully selected following detailed feasibility work to ensure it is durable, practical and appropriate for a heritage outdoor facility like Guildford Lido.
What This Means for Swimmers
The pool covers will primarily be deployed overnight and during periods when the pool is not in use. By retaining heat more effectively, they will help stabilise water temperatures and reduce the energy required to maintain our advertised swimming temperatures - 19/20° in the Winter and 24° in the Summer.
Frequently Asked Questions
The covers will significantly reduce heat loss and water evaporation, helping lower energy costs and reduce the Lido’s carbon footprint. This helps makes winter swimming more economically viable and supports the Lido’s long-term future.
Yes, there will be temporary reductions in lane availability during certain sessions while the phased installation is underway
Pool covers should never be deployed when the pool is in use due to safety reasons. They will typically be deployed overnight or during extended non-swimming periods, rather than during swimming sessions
The covers are designed for efficient deployment and retraction within a short operational window, ensuring minimal impact on programming and session start times.
The covers will significantly reduce heat loss and help stabilise water temperature. However, as an outdoor facility, water temperature can still be influenced by external factors such as air temperature and weather conditions. The covers are an important step in improving consistency and efficiency.
Yes. Swimathon on Friday 20th, Saturday 21st and Sunday 22nd March will take place as planned.
No. In line with Freedom Leisure’s Terms and Conditions:
(9.3) All centres may have an annual closure period which will not normally exceed three weeks. A minimum of 14 days’ notice of any such closure will be displayed. No membership refunds will be given for these periods.
The installation closure (23rd–25th March) falls within this provision.
Looking Ahead to Summer
The Guildford Lido Summer Timetable will begin on Wednesday 1st April, bringing extended opening hours and more opportunities to swim outdoors.
For full details on session times and what’s coming up this season, click the button below:
Thank You
We know the Lido means a great deal to the Guildford community. This investment ensures that Guildford Lido remains sustainable, efficient and ready to serve swimmers for decades to come.