Guildford Lido To Get State-Of-The-Art Pool Covers To Reduce Energy Costs

Published on: 24 Feb, 2026
Updated on: 26 Feb, 2026

Guildford Lido: A decarbonisation grant is coming from Surrey County Council.

Guildford Borough Council has secured full funding to install three, state-of-the-art pool covers at Guildford Lido. Work on the project will be starting in March.

The council says the project marks a major step forward in improving energy efficiency and secures the long-term sustainability of the 50 metre outdoor pool.

The decarbonisation grant is coming from Surrey County Council.

GBC said in a statement: “Following extensive site surveys, further investigatory works and a detailed feasibility study, these new covers promise to deliver significant energy savings and reduce water loss, supporting the Lido’s mission to create a more sustainable future and make winter swimming more economically viable.”

The project builds on the significant refurbishment completed in recent years at the 92-year-old pool. This modernised the site and transformed the changing area.

This earlier work was recognised at the Guildford Design Awards 2025 when it won the Small Public Building category.

Emma Beavis, Area Manager at Freedom Leisure, which operates the pool on behalf of the council, said: “We’re delighted by the upcoming installation of the new pool covers at the Lido, which will make a real difference.

“Thanks to the external funding raised by Guildford Borough Council, we can deliver energy savings and a reduction in our carbon footprint that will help future-proof the lido and protect a much-loved local landmark.”

Cllr Vanessa King, the council’s Lead for Economy and Place, said: “I’m pleased to announce that work will be starting in March. It has taken some time to get to this stage, but that time has been a good investment as we are confident the covers chosen are fit for purpose.

“The covers will be easy to deploy and maintain and will significantly reduce energy costs. As we move toward a greener and more energy-efficient borough, it is important that the Lido remains a sustainable venue, ensuring its success as a cherished, all-year-round leisure option for residents and visitors for the next 50 years.”