Pictured: The Purley Way Lido, with feature diving board, in its pomp in the 1930s

Croydon is one of London’s largest and most diverse boroughs, home to almost 400,000 residents. Yet, despite its size and ambition, Croydon lacks a year-round public lido.

We are calling on Croydon Council to explore the creation of a modern heated outdoor lido and wellbeing park—a welcoming place where people of all ages can swim, exercise, relax and connect.

The facility could include:

A heated outdoor lido open year-round
Indoor pools, gym and fitness facilities
Saunas and wellness facilities
A café and community spaces
Children’s splash and play areas
Green spaces for relaxation and outdoor exercise
Flexible spaces for community activities and events
A lido would improve access to swimming, encourage healthier lifestyles, help children learn an essential life skill and provide affordable recreation for residents throughout the year. It could also support mental wellbeing, strengthen community connections and provide a valuable green public space.

This does not need to be an entirely council-funded project. We are asking Croydon Council to investigate partnerships with experienced leisure operators, Sport England, the National Lottery, developers, investors and other funding partners to identify a suitable site and create a financially sustainable scheme.

A landmark lido could also support Croydon’s regeneration by attracting visitors, increasing footfall for local businesses, creating jobs and establishing the borough as a destination for health, leisure and wellbeing.

By signing this petition, you are asking Croydon Council to investigate and pursue the partnerships, funding and investment needed to deliver a modern heated lido and wellbeing park.

Croydon is growing and looking to the future. Now is the time to invest in a healthier, greener and more ambitious borough.