London Fields Lido to close until summer for major repair works

A popular lido in a trendy part of east London is set to close until summer after major problems were discovered with the tiling.

London Fields Lido will be out of action from April 10 so that Hackney Council can carry out emergency repairs.

Tiles began to come away from the Olympic-sized outdoor pool, popular with hipsters, last year leading the council to install temporary barriers to provide protection to swimmers.

However, now a contractor has been secured the summer hotspot will close fully to allow an entire tile replacement to get underway.

Indoor changing rooms and the main reception area will also be fully refurbished, a council spokesman confirmed.

London Fields Lido is popular year-round with Hackney residents, offering swimming lessons, fitness sessions and lane swimming as well as a café, sundeck and sunbathing area.

The council first announced the closure in November, however, issues securing a contractor led to delays.

Hackney resident Ben Alden-Falconer, who swims in the lido at least twice a week, told the Standard: "Where else can you swim in crystal clear water under the sun, stars or rain, all year round?

"The fact that it is 50 metres and heated - I still go when it snows - makes it pretty unique.

"Other local pools are just not the same experience. Hopefully the works will not take longer than the projected four months."

Swimmers shared their heartbreak at hearing the pool would close for several months as the weather improves.

Caro McAdam wrote on Twitter: “So London Fields Lido is closing for repairs at the end of the day 9th April... Re-open soon.”

Rose Blake added: “Just found out that London Fields lido is closing on 9th April for four months. The whole season. I actually feel heartbroken.”

Councillor Jon Burke said: “I understand that closing the Lido will be frustrating for regular users, but the works are essential and the risks will be minimised if they are undertaken during the warmer weather.

“This means swimmers will be able to enjoy better, more modern facilities when the Lido reopens in summer 2017.”