The St Helier politician backing plans for a charity to breathe new life into the Lido has said the group is still in the running to do so – after a fresh coat of paint failed to alleviate concerns about the condition of the historic coastal site.
Deputy David Warr explained that the ‘Love our Lido’ group was still awaiting the outcome of the expressions of interest process launched by the Government last year, which sought proposals “for the operation of the swimming pool and associated facilities” at the Havre des Pas site.
“It’s still ongoing – the next meeting I think is in the first couple of weeks of June,” Deputy Warr said.
“Hopefully by the end of that we will get to know who is running the pool.”
The charity had previously stated that it would fundraise and seek sponsorship, and that revenue generated by commercial activities on the site could be ring-fenced and re-invested in the infrastructure of the pool complex.
Deputy Warr also said that the Government’s efforts to rectify issues with new paintwork had concluded, but that concerns remained over other aspects of the site – including the condition of the roof.
This is about reinvesting in something owned by the public and for the public
Deputy David Warr
One islander recently posted in the Lido Steering Group Facebook page, warning of the “frankly dangerous” state of the poolside steps.
“It’s time this facility was managed with proper due care and attention,” he added.
Deputy Warr said: “This is about reinvesting in something owned by the public and for the public.”
Management of the area rose to the front of the political agenda during a protest last year, after concerns were raised about its condition and it emerged that notice had been served on the company holding the tenancy for the associated restaurant and event space, The Lido, to quit the site.
An agreement was reached with the government to allow the current operator, BeServed, to remain until the end of 2025.
Parties who submitted expressions of interest were due to present their proposal to a selection panel last month.
The panel will score and rank each proposal and will make a recommendation to the Assistant Infrastructure Minister, Simon Crowcroft, for the award of a nine-year lease to the successful bidder.
The full expressions of interest document for the Havre des Pas Lido can be read HERE.