Brockwell Lido future secured by Lambeth Council

Lambeth Council has confirmed that Brockwell Lido, including its outdoor pool, gym, and café, will transfer to council management from July 1. The facility will be operated by Active Lambeth, the council's in-house leisure service.

This decision follows the administration of the site's previous operator, Fusion Lifestyle, which entered administration on April 1 due to prolonged financial difficulties. Fusion Lifestyle had been in discussions with the council regarding the future of the community facility.

Continuity of Service and Future Plans

The council's stated priority is to maintain continuity of service for users and protect public access to Brockwell Lido. The aim is to secure the long-term future of the facility for residents. Existing memberships are expected to continue, with further information to be communicated to members in advance of the transfer date.

Brockwell Lido will become part of the wider Active Lambeth offering, which is intended to provide users with access to a broader range of leisure opportunities across the borough. Minimal disruption is anticipated for all users during the transition.

Investment in Leisure Facilities

Since bringing its leisure services in-house, Lambeth Council has reportedly invested in improving facilities across the borough. In 2024, a £1.1 million investment was made to introduce new activities and enhance the leisure offer for residents. This investment is part of the council's broader strategy to modernise leisure facilities, support financial sustainability, and increase community access to sport, health, and wellbeing opportunities.

The Big Picture: Leisure Facilities in London

The management of public leisure facilities is a recurring theme for local authorities across the UK. National statistics from Sport England indicate that participation in sport and physical activity is crucial for public health. In London, local authorities often face challenges in balancing the cost of maintaining facilities with the demand for accessible and affordable leisure services. Recent reports suggest that many local authorities are exploring in-house management or partnerships to ensure the sustainability of these vital community assets. The trend towards in-house management, as seen with Lambeth Council's Active Lambeth service, is one approach being adopted to gain greater control over service delivery and financial management.