Clacton Pier Lido (EHER 81175)

The site of a former lido at the pierhead, Clacton on Sea. It was opened between 1932 and 1935. The opening was celebrated with a Polo match and diving display to a large crowd. It measured 165 by 60 foot. Below the lido 171 piles supported the 315,000 gallons of water (2,000 tons) above. Between 1971 and 1985 the pool was used to accommodate dolphins who performed to the public. This pool was closed by 1989, as a result of a general decline of the pier and of Clacton as a holiday resort from the 1960s onwards. The structure still survives however it has been subject to alteration and many of its original fixtures and fittings have been removed.

Information from NRHE data transfer Clacton-on-Sea Pool, at the pierhead was opened in 1935. It measured 165 by 60 foot. This facility was closed by 1989 <1> Opened in 1932 (note conflict with source 1). It closed as a result of a general decline of the pier and of Clacton as a holiday resort from the 1960s onwards. The structure still survives and is included on a last of lidos that might be theoretically re-opened. Source 3 includes a photograph of the Lido when it was open. <2-3> Below the lido 171 piles supported the 315,000 gallons of water (2,000 tons) above. The opening was celebrated with a Polo match and diving display to a large crowd. <4> From 1971 to 1985 the pool was used to accommodate dolphins who performed to the public. It was closed in or before 1989, since when it has become derelict. The Clacton Pier Lido was undoubtedly a rare feature in the context of C20 pier development, as piers were not usually designed with integral swimming pool facilities . However, it has been the subject of extensive alteration and now survives in a highly- degraded condition with many of its original fixtures and fittings having been removed and with a modern blockwork perimeter wall now enclosing the former lido pool. Many of the other contemporary pier facilities, such as the original fairground-style rides have also been replaced, leaving the much-altered lido now bereft of much of its original context. Although the Clacton Pier Lido was a distinctive and rare feature of seaside pier development in England, it has been severely altered, and its original design heavily compromised. <5>