The Kenilworth Lido Campaign group has this week produced a roadmap for what they believe could see the town's outdoor pool open once more before proposed demolition work begins.

It was announced at the end of March by Warwick District Council and the pool's operators Everyone Active that all sports facilities barring the lido would reopen in Kenilworth in line with the Government's roadmap.

The decision on whether to reopen the lido currently sits with the deputy chief executive, Bill Hunt, full time officers and the portfolio holder for environment and neighbourhood, Cllr Alan Rhead.

2021 marks the 125th anniversary of outdoor swimming in the town.

The campaign group has said: "This is an opportunity to create an inviting outdoor pool in Abbey Fields, something that would put Kenilworth on the map at a time when outdoor swimming - all year round - is increasingly popular and known to be beneficial to physical and mental health.

"Abbey Fields outdoor pool is the only outdoor facility in the district. It would provide a district facility which would be used throughout Warwickshire and beyond."

When contacted by Kenilworth Nub News about the reopening of the lido, a WDC spokesperson said: "I can confirm that no decision has yet been taken on the reopening of this pool.

"Officers and councillors are keeping the situation regarding the recovery roadmap under review and how this will impact on the further reopening of sports and leisure facilities. It is a classic example of basing decisions on data not dates."

With the aim of finding the easiest way of bringing a return for outdoor swimming in the town, the Kenilworth Lido Campaign group's roadmap sets out a number of proposals for the reopening.

These include:

- 'Beach style' changing: swimmers can arrive 'pool ready'.

- Additional entry through the back gate to alleviate congestion at the main entrance.

- Allotted time slots to be pre-booked (and pre-paid) to ensure numbers do not exceed Covid safe limits.

- Time slots can be staggered to avoid indoor and outdoor swimmers arriving together.

- Longer opening hours, including evening (after work) or early morning, to spread demand and allow wider usage.

- Utilising volunteers under the supervision of Everyone Active to engage and involve the local community and meet additional staffing needs as a result of Covid restrictions.

- Effective communication through social media and local advertising to ensure people are aware of the outdoor swimming facility and related events.

- Actively seek opportunities to generate income (private pool hire, swim into the sunset etc).

- Welcoming potential collaborations with 'Friends of Kenilworth Lido' or similar Groups.