Saltdean Lido Pulled Off Historic England’s At Risk List!
After 14 years of gritty campaigning and painstaking restoration, Saltdean Lido has finally been saved from the jaws of ruin. The iconic Art Deco treasure has been officially removed from Historic England’s Heritage At Risk register, sparking celebrations across the community and heritage circles alike.
From Ruin to Revival
Once teetering on the edge of collapse, Saltdean Lido faced relentless damage from its brutal seaside location. The reinforced concrete was crumbling fast, and there was even a looming threat of turning the site into homes. But the local community wasn’t having it.
Added to the At Risk register in 2009, Saltdean Lido’s Grade II* status raised the alarm nationally. This boost helped unlock vital funds, including from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, to kickstart a full restoration by 2022. Now, the lido is back to its former glory, protected for future generations to enjoy.
Community Spirit Seals the Deal
Derek Leaver, Chair of Saltdean Lido, praised the team effort:
“Bringing new life to Saltdean Lido has been a fantastic achievement for the community-led project. We are immensely grateful for the financial support from The National Lottery Heritage Fund and numerous other funders, as well as the pragmatic and helpful advice from Historic England.”
Local volunteers and supporters poured their hearts into the project, transforming the Lido into a vibrant centre for entertainment, leisure, and community events once again.
A Triumph for Heritage and Heart
Now officially off the Heritage At Risk list, Saltdean Lido stands as a beacon of hope for historic buildings at risk nationwide. Before-and-after photos shared by the team reveal just how dire the situation was – a chilling reminder of what can be lost without passion and perseverance.
This coastal gem has been rescued for good, proving that community spirit and determination can save even the most endangered landmarks.
