Droitwich Lido History

A "New-look lido?"

Local government re-organisation in 1974 brought the Lido under the control of Wychavon District Council.

In the mid 1980's the lido had become so neglected that a major overhaul of the complex needed to take place. The Sea Bathing Entrance building was replaced by a fairly modest cafeteria, toilet block and kiosk, and the by now extremely run down changing rooms (originally in the style of beach huts, as befits the seaside) were demolished and replaced by a brand new children's paddling pool. Happily the complex's main Art Deco building was retained and refurbished and today still perfectly compliments the fountain and pool.

May 1996 produced reports of "Designs on a new look lido". Members of a working party were to visit Tonbridge swimming pool and the Coral Reef complex in Berkshire to gain ideas for making the lido a year round swimming pool, using a partial cover.

Wychavon Council chiefs hoped the new ideas would "make a splash and boost Droitwich tourism". By January 1997 plans for a massive complex on the site included beaches, a "sauna world", brine pools and an extensive health suite. The main pool would be significantly reduced in size. This would cost £6 million. The Lottery funded Millennium Commission was asked for half the costs. When this application failed the project was abandoned and the Lido quietly run down.