Hull, a UK city often unfairly ridiculed, is planning to restore its former mega lido in East Park, nearly 40 years after it was demolished. The proposal comes amid concerns over open-water deaths during recent heatwaves, with at least 18 people drowning in the UK this summer.
Background on Hull's Unfair Reputation
For years, Hull has been the subject of mockery, partly due to its previous reputation as one of the 'UK's worst places to live' and its sharp industrial decline in fishing and shipping. Even those who have never visited the East Yorkshire city often go along with the unfair narrative, despite significant progress.
Today, officially called Kingston upon Hull, the city boasts lively independent bars, restaurants, art galleries, and hidden gems along the waterside, as well as the mega amphitheatre Stage@TheDock. It is also home to The Deep, a colossal aquarium with more than 3,500 marine animals, and the historic Old Town with cobbled lanes, medieval architecture, and museums.
Recent Recognition and Proposed Lido Restoration
Proving how far it has come, Hull was named one of the 'best places in the world to travel to in 2026' by National Geographic, the only UK destination on that list. Now, the local council has agreed to explore restoring the former lido in East Park.
The open-air swimming pool opened in 1964 and was a haven for locals during summer months. After 24 years, it closed in 1985 and was demolished in 1988. While East Park still has a children's water play area, an Animal Education Centre, Pavilion Cafe, boat house, play areas, and an outdoor gym, the lido is still missed.
Drowning Prevention and Safety Concerns
According to the BBC, Councillor Jessica Smith said: "As the weather gets warmer, we see the same tragic stories repeated year after year. Open water is unforgiving; it doesn't matter how confident you are, it doesn't matter how fit you are." The proposal, put forward during Drowning Prevention Week, has been supported by Councillor Kalvin Neal, who noted it might need to be relocated. "Although it is something that could be looked at, potentially that isn't the best place, it could be somewhere else that might be better," he commented.
Cllr Smith previously stated: "As local councillors we have a duty to do our best to provide safe swimming facilities and adequate education to our young people. In a city surrounded by water and home to many lakes, drains and other bodies of water, this is a crucial issue for our communities this summer." Councillor George Grozav is seconding the proposal: "Every death in open water is a tragedy, and far too many of these incidents involve children and young people."
Existing Lido and Future Plans
Hull's only council-run lido is at Albert Avenue Pools and Fitness, an outdoor heated swimming pool opened in 2023 after a £10.5 million refurbishment. It operates from May to September and has proven hugely successful. The proposed restoration would be a welcome addition, providing another safe outdoor swimming environment.
