The Kenilworth Lido Campaign Group has written to councillors at Warwick District Council urging them to consider reopening the lido in Abbey Fields following the latest Government announcement on Covid-19.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson's roadmap was set out last Monday (February 22) and indicated that from March 29 outdoor sports facilities could reopen to the public.

Whilst no mention was given to skateparks at the time, the PM was explicit in stating that the new rules would allow outdoor pools to reopen.

A recent decision by Warwick District Council's Executive Committee in the middle of February legislated for such an announcement, giving council officers, the deputy chief executive, and portfolio holder for environment and neighbourhood the discretion to reopen the lido in line with the Government's roadmap out of lockdown.

This was met with enthusiasm by Kenilworth Town Councillors as the original proposal had been for neither the leisure centre in Abbey Fields nor Castle Farm Recreation Ground to reopen after lockdown ahead of the proposed demolitions this Autumn.

In a letter to all district councillors the Lido Campaign Group has said: "We were delighted to hear, in the Government announcement this week that from 29 March outdoor sports facilities, including open-air swimming pools, will be allowed to reopen.

"Now that we have a definite date from the Government, we sincerely hope that you will do everything you can to facilitate the opening of the outdoor pool in Abbey Fields.

"With no firm date for the opening of indoor sports facilities we see this as a vital action to support both the physical and mental health of our community, right now."

Council officers have advised that the outdoor pool will need at least six weeks to get ready for reopening for what could be the last summer of outdoor swimming in Kenilworth.

The letter continues: "We have a willing group of volunteers ready to offer time and inspiration to support the opening of the pool.

"A big part of the enthusiasm and support for this idea is rooted in the links to nature, being outdoors, and the benefits to physical and mental wellbeing this can bring.

"There is surely a responsibility to ensure that safe, low impact outdoor exercise and activity options are provided for people of all ages, abilities and incomes.

"With promises of opening the outdoor pool in 2020 dashed by the uncertainties of Coronavirus, it seems wholly right that the pool should be opened from April this year.

"This would allow the town to celebrate 125 years of outdoor swimming in Abbey Fields before what could be the pool's final year and its possible demolition."