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WORK is set to begin on a brand new lido in the UK after it received planning permission earlier this week.

The multi-purpose leisure attraction is set to be open in London by autumn 2025 and replaces one that closed in the park almost 30 years ago.

The new pool is replacing one that closed in Valentines Park almost 30 years ago
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The new pool is replacing one that closed in Valentines Park almost 30 years agoCredit: Redbridge Council
It will have a children's splash pad for kids to play on
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It will have a children's splash pad for kids to play onCredit: Redbridge Council
A sunbathing area will provide people a place to relax in the sun
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A sunbathing area will provide people a place to relax in the sunCredit: Redbridge Council
A dancing and exercise studio is set to be built next to the pool
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A dancing and exercise studio is set to be built next to the poolCredit: Redbridge Council

Redbridge Council's Planning Committee approved the proposals earlier this week on Wednesday, June 5, which will see the new lido be built in Valentines Park.

Construction is now expected to begin later this year, with aims for it open before the end of next year.

The council said it hopes to provide families with a new leisure facility that they will be able to enjoy for years to come.

The brand-new complex will be situated close to the original outdoor pool that was in Valentines Park's from 1923 to 1995.

Read More on UK Attractions

However, it will have much more than just the swimming pool for people to make use of.

As well as the six-lane 25-metre pool and changing rooms, there'll be a children's splash pad, a cafe, a gym, a dance/exercise studio, a meeting room, a sunbathing/relaxation area, an outdoor recreation/picnic area and car parking.

The new lido will also been created with sustainability in mind, with the latest technology, including solar panels, air-source heat pumps, water recycling systems, and energy-efficient lighting.

The council promises that these features will ensure sustainability and contribute to cost-efficiency, making the lido both responsible and economically viable.

Mark Baigent, Corporate Director of Regeneration and Culture, at Redbridge Council said: "We're delighted we can now move forward with plans to deliver the first new lido in London for decades.

"The old lido in Valentines Park holds a special place in the hearts of local people.

Five lidos to visit in the UK

"It is where families enjoyed idyllic summer days right on their doorsteps and it is so exciting that after nearly 30 years, a brand new lido and more will be introduced in the park for people to visit and create new special memories.

"As a council, we will continue to invest in leisure facilities so local families and visitors can access everything they need right on our doorstep."

The plans have gone down well with residents, with one commenting on the proposal video, shared by the council: "Excellent... hope it turns out to be exactly the same as planned."

Others took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to share their enthusiasm for the pool.

Five new water attractions opening in the UK next year

  1. Therme Manchester will have 25 swimming pools, 25 water slides and an indoor beach.
  2. Modern Surf Manchester will be a surfing lagoon offering lessons to both beginners and experts.
  3. Chessington World of Adventures waterpark is set to have wave, infinity and spa pools as well as waterslides and cabanas.
  4. The Cove Resort, Southport is likely to have a water lagoon and a thermal spa with steam rooms and saunas.
  5. The Seahive, Deal plans to be the "surfing wellness resort" in the UK.

One wrote: "A great swimmer needs to have a pool that is fun to learn to swim in.

"Lidos provide the joy of outdoor swimming for all, especially for those who cannot afford to holiday by the sea. The jobs they create are good too."

Another added: "This is a great initiative.

"The previous Lido in Valentines park was closed over 30 years ago. Good to see that there are serious moves to have a new Lido in the park."

Read More on The Sun

Meanwhile, a 100-acre water attraction with a huge pool and camping site is set to open in the UK.

And this new £40million water attraction near the UK seaside is opening with its own skatepark.

There will also be a gym, changing facilities as part of the complex
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There will also be a gym, changing facilities as part of the complexCredit: Redbridge Council
The brand new pool is the first to open in London in decades
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The brand new pool is the first to open in London in decadesCredit: Redbridge Council
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