Peterborough Lido temperatures could be cut to save cash

Reducing the temperature in a city's outdoor swimming pool has been suggested as a cost-saving measure.

Peterborough City Council is looking at cutting heating bills at the Lido on Bishop's Road as one potential way to save money.

The council has a projected £6.2m budget shortfall for 2024-25.

The full council, which is led by the Peterborough First group as a minority administration, is due to meet to set next year's budget on 21 February.

The art deco Lido, which has three heated pools, is usually open between April and September, although its season was extended last year to make up for the ongoing closure of the city's indoor Regional Pool.

Temperatures at the Lido pools vary. While typically around 18C (64F), the Friends of Peterborough Lido group has shared updates in which they have been as warm as 24C (75F).

If the temperature was lowered it could "reduce energy costs" next year.

The council said it had spending plans of about £220m for 2024-25. It was also facing a projected budget gap of £3.3m for 2025-26 and £6.9m in 2026-27.

The council had been run by a minority Conservative administration until several Tory councillors quit the party. In November, councillors voted to oust the Conservative council leader Wayne Fitzgerald and replaced him with Mohammed Farooq of the Peterborough First group.

Meanwhile, the unitary authority has to find "upwards of £10 to £15m" to reopen the Regional Pool, also on Bishop's Road, according to the Labour group on the council.

The indoor pool, which has been closed since September, needs significant repairs after reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (Raac) and asbestos was found at the facility.

Budget documents also show the authority is considering permanently switching off the fountains in Cathedral Square to save money.

The council estimates the water feature currently needs about £35,000 worth of repairs on top of their £20,000 annual running costs.

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