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# Watch: Brilliant new short film showcases Broomhill Lido's journey to restoration
- URL: https://www.ipswich.co.uk/watch-brilliant-new-short-film-showcases-broomhill-lido-s-journey-to-restoration/
- Published: 2024-09-05T12:52:05.000Z
- Updated: 2026-03-16T15:36:33.000Z
- Description: A new short film highlights the efforts to save Ipswich's iconic Broomhill Lido, which has been closed since 2002 and is set for a £10 million makeover.
- Author: Oliver Rouane-Williams
- Tags: News, Changemakers, Events & Things To Do, #article, Broomhill Pool Trust, #Import 2026-03-16 14:46

**The big picture:** The short film, brilliantly produced by the [Suffolk Money Podcast](https://suffolkmoney.co.uk/?ref=ipswich.co.uk), offers insight into the people who've dedicated their time and effort to preserving the historic 1930s open-air pool, one of only 17 listed lidos in Britain.

**Key points:**

- The lido will open to the public on September 14-15, 10am-4pm, for a final look before renovations.
- The film features interviews with key figures in the restoration effort, including Mark Ling, chairman of the [Broomhill Pool Trust](https://www.ipswich.co.uk/tag/broomhill-pool-trust/).
- Originally opened in 1938, the lido saw up to 2,000 daily visitors in its heyday.

**A brief history:**

- Broomhill Lido opened on April 30, 1938, costing £17,000 to build.
- Its features include a 55x20-yard main pool and a separate children's pool.
- During WWII, the heating system was removed, and attempts were made to camouflage the pool.
- The 1970s and 1980s saw peak popularity, with up to 50-60,000 swimmers during the 90-100-day opening period.
- A lack of investment and increased restrictions led to declining visitor numbers.
- It was Grade II Listed in 2001 but closed in 2002.
- Broomhill Pool Trust was formed in 2003 to save the facility, and efforts to reopen it have continued since then.

**What's next:** The restoration project aims to breathe new life into the facility and is expected to be completed by 2026.

**The bottom line:** This film is a testament to those who's efforts in preserving local heritage and the potential for Broomhill Lido's resurgence as a beloved public space.

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