Lido call Campaign for park swimming pool

RENEWED calls have been made for a new open air swimming pool in Eastville Park with almost 100 people writing to councillors. Bristol City Council was urged to consider supporting the community lido project with a leading councillor saying the idea has a “long journey” to go.

- Alex SEABROOK Local democracy reporter

Campaigners say the swimming pool should be built on the site of an unused old bowling green, nearby the former pool which has long been closed down and become overgrown. They believe a pool would boost the health of the local community, with a lack of alternative facilities nearby.

One option is for the council to hand over the bowling green to the Eastville Park Lido group, in a move known as a “community asset transfer”.

Written statements from members of the public asked the public health and communities policy committee to consider the proposals.

Liam Cavanagh said: “How good would it be to swim in Eastville Park? Under the blue sky surrounded by lush trees? We need better swimming opportunities for everyone. After years of austerity and the current bleak climate - let’s have some local, positive news for once.