An open-air swimming pool could be relocated or redeveloped after the council asked the public for their views on its future.
Major changes are planned for Finchley Lido Leisure Centre, which has been operating in High Road, North Finchley, for 28 years.
Barnet Council held a consultation between December 13 last year and February 6 to gather thoughts on whether the lido should be relocated to North Finchley Town Centre to create a “modern and more sustainable” facility at the heart of the town.
Other options include potentially refurbishing or redeveloping the existing venue.
The council says that more than 3,000 people responded to an online survey and community events to let the council know what they believe should happen.
It added that findings from the consultation are being analysed at the moment and no decision has been made at this time.
When launching the online survey, Barnet Council wrote: “We are exploring the potential of a future redevelopment of Finchley Lido Leisure Centre to create a modern and more sustainable facility.
“As the lease of the Great North Leisure Park (the current location of the leisure facility) is being sold as a standing asset or with redevelopment potential, we are exploring the possible refurbishment and/or redevelopment at Great North Leisure Park, along with a potential relocation to North Finchley Town Centre.
“The latter would bring a new leisure facility to the town centre as part of the placemaking aspirations of the town centre regeneration.”
It was said a new centre would deliver a “range of new and improved facilities”.
The council continued: “The decision on whether to proceed with redeveloping and potentially relocating the leisure centre is dependent upon a number of factors which include but are not limited to; consultation and engagement, feasibility analysis and an outline business case.”
Barnet’s housing and growth committee chair, Cllr Ross Houston, said that at this stage it is an “exploration of options”.
He added: “Unfortunately, the existing lido building is near its end of life and not fit for purpose long-term, it needs replacing with more modern, more sustainable options put in place.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel