Pool floodlights at Guildford Lido, Lido Road, Guildford

“Location: Guildford Lido, Lido Road, Guildford Proposal: Installation of 4No. 8m tall static LED floodlight masts to illuminate the outdoor swimming pool.”

“The proposed lights would be located around the perimeter of the swimming pool with three positioned along the northern and three along the southern boundary of the swimming pool. The application details that the scheme would enhance safety including those with visual impairments, extends operational hours and improve the year-round usability of the outdoor swimming pool whilst minimising the impact on nearby receptors and the surrounding park.”

“The site is located within the urban area of Guildford, within a designated open space, an Area of High Archaeological Potential and within a Local Historic Park and Garden. The area is characterised by a mix of residential development to the west and a Grade II* listed church, education buildings located within Guildford College to the south of the site, recreational buildings and allotments to the east of the site and a hotel and wooded area to the north.”

“21/P/02642 Demolition and replacement of changing facilities at Guildford Lido, including the replacement of existing failed surface water and foul drainage. Approve 22/03/2022 N/A”

“13/P/00112 Erection of a water slide. Approve 11/03/2013 N/A”

“The development is acceptable in principle. The proposal would not result in any adverse impact on the character of the area, ecology or neighbouring amenity due to the design and positioning of the lighting scheme which would create limited light spill. Less than substantial harm is identified to the setting of the nearby Grade II* listed church, however it is considered that this…”

“Surrey County Council Archaeologist: Although the site is within an Area of High Archaeological Potential, the proposals do not involve a significant amount of ground disturbance and so as it is very unlikely that archaeological remains will be disturbed.”

“Environmental Health: No objection, subject to the imposition of conditions relating to the installation, maintenance and operation of the lights during operating hours only.”

“Members were advised on the lighting levels and light spill, which would be directed towards the pool and dissipate quickly beyond the site. The visual relationship between the Lido and the nearby churchyard was also explained. Officers concluded that any identified harm would be less than substantial and would be outweighed by the public benefits, including improved safety and extended community use.”

“In debate, Members sought clarification on the number of floodlights proposed and were advised that six masts would be installed. Members noted the strong local support for extended opening hours and the wider community benefits of the proposal.”

“The Chair moved the motion to approve application 26/P/00110, subject to the conditions and reasons as set out in the Officer’s report. The motion was seconded by Councillor Miah and was carried.”

“RESOLVED: That application 26/P/00110 be APPROVED, subject to the conditions and reasons as set out in the Officer’s report.”