UK's oldest lido to remain closed amid flood damage

This was set to be some of the busiest months at the newly-opened lido

The UK's oldest lido remains closed after flooding caused "significant damage".

After years of campaigning and fundraising, this summer was set to be the first time in decades swimmers could bathe at Cleveland Pools in Bath.

But the lido has not been able to open for the spring season after heavy rain damaged "vital equipment" in the plant room.

The team that runs the site cannot move forward with repairs until investigations establish who is "responsible and liable".

Damage was caused after flash floods hit Bath in February

Cleveland Pools Trust chairman Paul Simons described it as a "complex situation".

"Whilst designed to resist flood damage, water did penetrate the 'waterproof' plant room in January and vital equipment, including the electrical installations, were damaged," he said.

"As a result, investigations are underway to establish responsibilities and liabilities.

"Until that process has been concluded, works to repair or replace the damaged equipment cannot proceed."

First opening in 1815, the lido was saved due to a 20-year campaign led by volunteers.

The famous site closed to the public in the 1980s but re-opened for the first time in September following years of fundraising.

The overall cost of the project was £9.3m, with £6.47m coming from The National Lottery Heritage Fund.

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