 We know we've said it before, but it's worth repeating - the pool has passed its test!
Now, the team can move on to the next stage, where it will be fully transformed into a beautifully blue and inviting space.
 Meet Rocky!
This cheeky cockerpoo spent a couple of days at the lido, keeping spirits high as work continues.
Looking every bit the professional in his high-vis jacket - because safety first, of course! Rocky made sure to inspect the progress (and probably sniff out a few treats along the way!)
He has his own Instagram account, so be sure to give him a follow...
 We’ve mentioned ‘concrete pours’ a lot in these bulletins, but here’s a look at the machine that makes it happen. The concrete goes in at one end and is pumped out through this large tube.
There’s only a small amount left to pour now, which will go inside the filtration tanks once they’re in place. They won’t be filled with concrete - just a little at the bottom to secure the pipework.
 Work has been focused on the plant room to get that finished. Here's a little reminder of what it looked like before work started on it...pretty old and grim!
 This is the plant room now!
The walls have been raised higher, and you can see the gaps in the concrete at the top. These are designed to hold the steel joists, which will support timber running from one side to the other. Once that’s in place, the roof can be fitted.
Next up, the team will build what's known in construction as a 'birdcage' - a scaffold structure that provides a safe platform for builders to work from.
 Our construction team from Beard are passionate about fostering careers in construction.
This week, they participated in Open Doors, aimed at showcasing the wide range of careers within the industry. They welcomed secondary school children from The Green Room and Springfield to visit the lido project, where they learned about the various roles involved.
The day began with a thorough health and safety briefing from senior site manager Gareth, followed by a fascinating talk on the lido's history by Jane Smith, author of 'The Book of Hilsea: Gateway to Portsmouth.' After gearing up in their PPE, the kids were taken on an insightful tour of the site.
The students and teachers found the experience incredibly rewarding and are looking forward to returning to see the completed project!
 Solent Outdoor Swimmers (SOS) are eager to dive back into Hilsea Lido’s cool waters. Founded by Ali Couch in 2018, SOS connects over 2,000 outdoor swimmers across the region, meeting three times a week.
SOS is an informal swimming group and its members share their knowledge and passion for swimming outdoors. They swim at Eastney, Southsea, Chichester Harbour, Langstone Harbour, Emsworth, Bosham or Bracklesham Bay.
During winter, members train at Mountbatten pool to stay swim-fit for events like the Solent Swim. Ali, a former Hilsea Lido volunteer, hopes the new owners will embrace cold water swimming and club meets. With its 67-metre unheated pool, the lido is an ideal training spot right here in the city.
“We love supporting local lidos, but having Hilsea back would be a game-changer. If there’s a sauna and good coffee, we might never leave!”
If you're interested in joining this welcoming group, join their Facebook group or follow the link below to find your local swimming group.
 Nestled in the heart of Foxes Forest, Casemates Studios is a place worth visiting. They have recording studios and a cosy café.
They host a variety of events, from live music to arts and crafts. Visit their website to stay updated on upcoming activities.
 Starting week commencing 24 March 2025 the North Portsea Coastal Scheme team are expecting a significant increase in heavy deliveries through our site entrance at Portsbridge roundabout car park.
Additionally, scheduled work on the slipway adjacent to the car park is set to begin therefore the footpath along Portsbridge roundabout carpark will be closed from 24 March 2025.
Diversions are in place (see map).
As essential emergency gas work currently being carried out by SGN (Southern Gas Network) is coinciding with the planned coastal defence work, the temporary diversion put in place along the car park cannot be used.
Once the emergency gas work is completed in this area, the temporary footbridge leading over the car park will be opened to offer a shorter diversion route.
We have been assured by SGN that the emergency work coinciding with the project is being completed as soon as possible and there will be an update as soon as SGN have confirmed a completion date. Thank you for your understanding.
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