Following the latest Welsh Government announcement, RCT Council can confirm that the National Lido of Wales, Lido Ponty will re-open on Saturday, May 1.
The Lido suffered significant damage during Storm Dennis in February 2020, which brought widespread devastation to communities across Rhondda Cynon Taf during the worst flooding episodes in a generation. This was quickly followed by the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, although the Council has continued work to repair and improve the hugely popular Lido over the last year, with works to the facility being completed last month.
The Lido will open on weekends and bank holidays only, with extended opening hours making the most of the lighter nights, however, these will be subject to reduced numbers of entrants due to COVID regulations. Early morning swimming may also be available between Monday to Friday between 6.30am and 9.30am, with local swimming clubs also given the opportunity to make use of the facility during the evenings.
These arrangements are forecast to be in place for a period of 3 weeks, with a further review to then be undertaken to possibly allow extending the opening hours before hopefully being in a position to return to a full schedule in the summer.
County Borough Councillor Andrew Morgan, Leader of Rhondda Cynon Taf Council, said: “I’m sure many residents will have been eagerly awaiting the Council’s announcement on the re-opening of the much-loved Lido Ponty, and after an unprecedented year, it is fantastic to be in a position where we can look toward the Lido being able to open its doors in the near future.
“The damage sustained during Storm Dennis was substantial, with over 1,000 tonnes of debris and water needing to be removed and key infrastructure at the site being completely submerged.
“We have, however, taken the opportunity to not only repair the damage to the Lido, but also to deliver improvements to the facility, with all new paddle boats and inflatables purchased and the toilet areas reconfigured to accommodate the creation of a brand-new ‘Changing Place’ which provides improved facilities for our customers.”
