Hilsea Lines update - 4 October

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4 October 2024

Ace of base

Pool base at the Lido

As promised in our last bulletin, the remainder of the concrete has been poured into the centre section, bringing the base of the pool up to its final level. This is now ready to be rendered.

The team are have now moved on to the slopes either side to install the steel reinforcing, which will then have concrete poured over the top, like the centre section. Once complete, there will be 30 lorry loads of concrete used in the construction of the pool!

Soon, the whole pool will have reached the final level, so you'll really be able to get a sense of scale and see what it will look like when it is finished.


It's not just a pipe dream

pipes being laid around the pool

Now, this might look like a couple of random drainpipes, but they actually form part of the pool's new sophisticated filtration system, which will be vital in keeping the water sparkling clean when it opens.

You'll notice one is pointing up, and one is on its side. The one pointing up will be under a floor grate on one of the reinstated 'lagoons' on the north side of the pool, and the one on its side will be integrated into the side of the pool. 

All these pipes will link up together and flow back to the plant room, where they will connect with the brand new filtration equipment that will be installed. 


Focus on the Blue Lagoon

The interior of the Blue Lagoon

One of the questions we've been asked, is about the future of the Blue Lagoon. This building has a proud history as one of Portsmouth's music venues, hosting regular jazz events, tea dances, and even a regular country and western night during the 1970s and 1980s.

Known as as the Hilsea Café when it first opened, the name was later changed to the Blue Lagoon. You can spot it bearing the original name in this footage here from 1961.

The funding we have doesn't cover refurbishing the Blue Lagoon, but it will play a very important part in the future of Hilsea Lido. When we begin advertising for a tenant to operate the lido in the coming weeks, the Blue Lagoon, along with the original pavilion building, will be part of the package.

They will then be expected to invest in them as part of the council's agreement with them. By providing a new food, drink and entertainment offer at the Blue Lagoon, they'll be able to generate more income, which they can plough back into improving the wider Hilsea Lido area.


Bavaria comes to Hilsea Lines

Sausages for Oktoberfest

Did you know that just south of Hilsea Lines you can find one of Portsmouth's breweries - and they open their taproom on a Friday and Saturday, meaning you can pop in following a walk around Foxes Forest?

This Saturday from 1pm - 7pm, Urban Island Brewery are hosting an 'Oktoberfest Food Saturday'. Grate Fire Kitchen will be joining them, serving a delicious Oktoberfest style fire smoked menu on their fire pit. Urban Island will be pouring their German Pilsner "HAPPY PILS", along with their range of cask & keg beers, guest ciders, wine and cocktails.

Take a look


Get the latest NPCS updates

north portsea map

As mentioned in last week's bulletin, work on the fifth and final phase of the North Portsea Coastal Scheme has started along Ports Creek, building new sea defences which help significantly reduce the risk of flooding for 4,200 homes and 500 businesses in the area.

The team behind the NCPS have their own email bulletin where they will be sending regular in-depth updates about the scheme. We'll also continue to bring you any important updates that will affect those who use the area too!


Seeing the value in collaboration

social value event at Hilsea Lido

Last week, businesses attended a special event at Hilsea Lido to discuss how they can get involved in making this an even better facility for the community. Government funding has been secured to complete the development to a high standard, but the funding will only go so far.

There's been lots of interest from businesses wanting to get involved, and the council has pledged to match fund any financial donations.

Any donations made can be promoted through social media, email marketing, a press release, and recognition on our website. Additionally, thank you plaques on site can provide lasting visibility for your company. If you want more information, or want to get involved in the project, then email HilseaLines@portsmouthcc.gov.uk

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