Broomhill Pool

This Scrutiny Panel met four times and visited the Pool. The Society's representative has provided this background information and added some personal comments. A final decision from the Council is not expected until the summer.

"This lido was built in 1937 by Ipswich Borough Council. Architecturally it is very much of its time. Unfortunately it was so much if its time that the constructional methods used have not allowed it to survive in a good state. A survey two years ago showed that not only was there corrosion of the reinforcement bars but that they were inadequate in number. Further, the pool leaks and overall the entire complex, aided by some springs, is slipping slowly down the side of the sand and gravel hill on which it is built. It was given a further five years of life in 1998 by the surveyors if £50,000 worth of remedial work was carried out.

• The lido is pleasant but not of particular architectural merit.
• IBC do not propose to request a Listing.
• Remedial works (installation of a new pool box) providing heating and disabled access will cost at least £2m.
• Running costs are about £200,000 for 15,000 visitors a season.
• It provides a 55 yard open pool, plus a 10m diving box, plus a learners' pool.
• It has nice south facing sunbathing areas which provide a focus of social interaction for the 11 - 15 year olds who make up 85% of the users through the summer holiday.
• It is a much needed facility in the already deprived NW sector of the town.
• The Panel feel the capital should be found from Council monies (no chance of Lottery money).
• Better facilities, increased use and support would reduce subsidy from a Friends' group.