Ilkley Lido to host 90th birthday celebration

Ilkley Pool and Lido will be hosting an event to celebrate its 90th anniversary

A Grade II-listed outdoor swimming pool is to mark its 90th anniversary with a community picnic and fun day.

Ilkley Lido will host the birthday event, featuring live music, street food and a fancy dress competition, on 11 May.

The celebration comes after Bradford Council considered closing the 1930s pool as part of budget cuts, but axed the plans after objections from the community.

Becky Malby, chair of Ilkley Pool and Lido Community Group (IPLCG), said: "When we were worried about the future of the pool, hundreds of people got in touch to tell us how important it is and to offer to help the Lido to continue to be a fantastic experience for so many."

IPLCG was formed in April 2024 and has been working with the council to secure the pool's future with planned events.

The 90th birthday party is the first in the line-up and will see live performances from Ilkley Live and Two Rivers swing band.

There will be a selfie photobooth, creative activities, a raffle, and rookie lifeguard sessions where people can learn CPR, spinal work and bandaging.

An exhibition will also show the history of the lido.

The pool, pictured in 2019, has been open since 1935

Upcoming events at the outdoor pool include full moon swims, outdoor cinema and Bollywood meets Hollywood as part of the 2025 City of Culture celebrations.

Bradford councillor Sarah Ferriby said: "This community picnic and fun day is a wonderful way to celebrate Ilkley Lido's 90th anniversary.

"Preparations are well under way with the Lido having been repainted this week, so it looks its best for its special year."

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