Britain's iconic art deco lido re-opens with beach and bar after £4.5million revamp
A beloved British lido has unveiled its fresh look following a massive £4.5million makeover, with hopes the extensive refurbishment will attract both tourists and locals to enjoy the facility throughout the year.
The art deco pool, established in 1935 and boasting Grade II listing, is an idyllic spot for a summer jaunt.
Plymouth's renowned Tinside Lido, famed for its sunbathing and swimming in filtered, crystal-clear saltwater, is a favourite haunt for those looking to bask in the sunshine.
Following the upgrade, visitors can now relish the new café pod and event space on the sun terrace. The lido, nestled next to a quaint shingle beach, is a hub for hardy swimmers who take to the sea regardless of the season.
Thanks to Plymouth Hoe's elevated terrain, the south-facing lido enjoys a 'micro climate' that shields it from northern gusts, often making it feel toastier than surrounding areas, reports the Express.
This year marks the 'iconic' Tinside Lido's 90th anniversary, a celebration that aligns with the rejuvenation of this quintessential British summertime locale. This comes on the heels of Plymouth Sound being designated as the UK's inaugural National Marine Park.
Tudor Evans OBE, Leader of Plymouth City Council, said: "People use the word iconic all the time but Tinside honestly is.
"It's treasured not only by the people of Plymouth but visitors from far and wide - and offers some of the most breathtaking views in the city, if not the country.
"But it's not just a spectacular place to go for a swim and take in our amazing waterfront.
"This regeneration has brought a whole new life to the lido and is such an important project for the city.
"It not only protected a much-loved part of Plymouth's heritage. It's helped to secure its future, by creating new, inspirational spaces that the whole community - and visitors to the city - can enjoy for many years to come - exciting times are ahead!".
The lido's restoration opens doors to fresh opportunities that will support the long-term viability of this picturesque outdoor swimming venue - with the lido's future set to provide Plymouth youngsters with the chance to master swimming skills.
Rhys Jones, chief executive officer of Plymouth Active, said: "We're delighted to see these new spaces at Tinside Lido open for the community.
"Tinside is a vital part of our mission to give every child in Plymouth the chance to learn to swim and develop a love for the water.
"The new facilities also open up opportunities for events and activities that will help sustain Tinside for future generations."
Looking ahead, couples will be able to tie the knot at the breathtaking lido location, whilst silent discos are also planned alongside open-air film screenings designed to bring in revenue - supporting free and affordable youth programmes across this major Devon city.
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