Pontypridd Ynysangharad Park lido to stay free in 2016

Swimmers at the pool's opening day in August 2015

The revamped lido at Pontypridd is to continue with its free entry policy in 2016 for its second season.

The Grade-II listed structure reopened at the end of August 2015, and offered free swimming until the end of October.

Rhondda Cynon Taf council said positive feedback from traders about increased business had led to the decision.

The pool will open for the Easter holidays from 25 March until 10 April and then fully for the summer from 28 May until 11 September.

The original lido opened in 1927 but closed in 1991 after falling into disrepair.

A £6.3m restoration has seen three swimming pools, an adventure park, a cafe and a visitors' centre open on the site in Ynysangharad Park.

Council leader Andrew Morgan said: "Traders in Pontypridd have made it very clear to me that Lido Ponty delivered a noticeable improvement in business when it opened last August.

"When considering the positive impact the facility has made upon the local economy, and the way it has become such a cherished attraction with the public, we have taken the decision to continue with free admission for 2016."