Brockwell Lido Users
Criteria for assessing Lido proposals
BLU held a meeting for all members on 5 October 2002 to discuss expressions of interest in managing the Lido and the criteria by which
tendering organisations should be evaluated.
See here for photographs of the meeting.
The following notes summarise points raised in discussion groups on criteria to be applied in assessing proposals for the Lido.
Context
At the BLU meeting on 5 October members were asked to comment on the criteria they want the final proposals for the running of the Lido to meet. The following is a summary of the main messages from group discussions.
In reading this summary it is important to be aware of the following factors. Fifty-seven members attended plus about 6 new members who joined on the day, making this the lowest attendance we have had at a BLU meeting. A show of hands taken at the end of the meeting indicated that very few of those present participated in activities other than swimming. This means that the views summarised here are those of swimmers; the views of those who attend Yoga, Tai Chi, Meditation and participate in Whippersnapper music workshops are not represented.
Points that were mentioned in all groups and given high priority
Ambience
Keeping the current ambience was a high priority for the majority in all groups. This was defined in different ways. The characteristics mentioned included: a friendly management style, flexibility, a varied mix of people, organic development, informal friendly atmosphere. In some groups this was identified strongly with current management.
A coherent plan for maximising the use of the building is essential
The length of the swimming season and the opening hours
There is a consensus that the current swimming season and hours should be at least maintained and preferably extended. The importance of morning swimming and evening swimming were mentioned frequently. It was acknowledged that there are economic constraints to providing a long season and a number of strategies for tackling this were suggested: family tickets, book of tickets, monthly pass. It was suggested that a swimming club might be formed to help fund the extended hours.
Pricing to keep the Lido accessible to the community
Current prices seem high to some members. It is thought to be particularly difficult for families.
Income generation
The proposed plans for the development must offer financial viability and long-term stability.
Good marketing of the Lido
It was pointed out that there are no signs at park entrances telling people that there is a Lido and when it is open. People are confused about when the Lido is open.
Management of the Lido
Strong support for having a structure which allows ongoing consultation with the community
The importance of having a good process for reviewing performance was stressed
More Specific Comments
Pool
Must be open-air in the summer
There are mixed feelings about heating the water in summer---some like it cold
Eco-friendly heating of the pool to extend the season should be explored
Needs clean changing rooms with lockers for storing clothing
Better access for those with disabilities is now a legal requirement
Green plants are important
New Development to Subsidise the Lido
The architectural merits of the building must be preserved
The height of the building should not be increased if this will prevent sun from reaching the pool
Extending the area beyond that of the Lido plus the football changing rooms was not thought to be desirable but it was admitted by some that compromises would need to be made
Catering
Frequent mention of having a restaurant/café open all day but this was not given high priority
Use of Rooms Surrounding the Lido
Highest priority was given to ensuring a range of activities suitable for all ages, for diverse interests and different cultural backgrounds
There was significant support for ensuring that current activities are able to continue
There was support for maximising the use of space but not for maximising income if that means that activities valued by the community can no longer take place.
Innovation
Most support for activities that would increase use in non-swimming months
Specific mention of ice rink, hot tub and steam room
More specific attention to the needs of those with disabilities
There was a proposal from one group for a swimming club with membership fees to help support a longer swimming season
If you wish to pass on futher comments, please e-mail them to us at info@brockwellllido.com.