Brockwell Lido change: One Month On

It's now been over a month since Brockwell Lido moved from Fusion Lifestyle to Active Lambeth, and we thought it was time for an update on how things are settling in.

As is to be expected with any transition of this scale, there have been some teething issues — particularly around the new booking system and account set-up. We know that was frustrating for many of you, and we want to say a sincere thank you to users and staff alike for your patience during that period. The good news is that Active Lambeth reports that the volume of queries has reduced significantly, and most users have now successfully set up their accounts. AL are also arranging for additional support at front-of-house to help with any remaining booking queries. While a few things are still being finalised, the transition is largely complete.

What's new — the practical details

Here's a summary of what has changed and what you need to know:

• Booking. Sessions can now be booked through the Active Lambeth app or website. Please note that the cancellation window has changed slightly: you now need to cancel at least 4 hours before your session start time to avoid a penalty charge (it was 3 hours under Fusion).

• Opening times. The pool is now open for longer in the evenings — very welcome during the recent heatwaves. Check the app or booking page for specific times on any given day, as these can vary.

• Poolside. Flags have been added at both ends of the pool, and loungers are now available to hire from reception.

• Gym refurbishment. The gym has had a new floor and new equipment, with an official reopening on 24 July. As some new type of equipment has been introduced, do ask for an induction session to ensure safe usage.

• Entry and membership cards. The card barrier system is no longer in use — members with bookings still need to queue to sign in at reception. Membership cards are now digital only, available through the Active Lambeth app (under My Account\My Membership Card. Physical cards will not be issued. It is not yet clear when card readers will be introduced; we'll keep you posted.

• Classes. Some classes have changed — different times, different teachers, or in some cases removed altogether. We'd encourage you to check the booking system for the current timetable. If a class you loved has disappeared, do let Active Lambeth know (politely!) via customer service — member feedback genuinely matters.

• Premium membership. There is now an option to upgrade to a premium membership giving access to all Active Lambeth centres across the borough. Log into the AL website and go to the Memberships area if you'd like to explore this.

• Contact details. Customer service can be reached at activelambeth@lambeth.gov.uk or on 0207 095 5100 (Monday–Friday, 9am–5pm). To reach the Lido reception directly, call 020 7926 8553 and press 1. The Active Lambeth website also has a general information page for the Lido.

  
  

A word on water quality

With the hot weather bringing record numbers to the pool, some of you noticed that the water appeared less clear at times. We want to offer some reassurance on this.

Active Lambeth has confirmed that the filtration system at the Lido is fully compliant with the relevant industry standards for outdoor pools, and the site team carries out water quality checks every two hours. That said, they acknowledge that lidos can be more susceptible to water quality challenges in hot weather due to higher usage and environmental factors — and they've taken this seriously. A number of improvements have recently been completed, including servicing and upgrading the dosing and filtration systems and carrying out a full shock treatment of the pool water. They will continue to monitor performance closely. The pool is safe.

BLU's role during the transition

The BLU website has been a busy source of information throughout — with over 1,500 unique visitors in a single day on peak days. We're glad it's been useful, and we'll keep bringing you updates as things develop.

BLU has also been working behind the scenes to liaise with Active Lambeth on members' behalf. One tangible example: following a spike in users incorrectly receiving penalty charges in early July, BLU requested that the penalty system be temporarily deactivated — and AL agreed. That kind of direct engagement is exactly what BLU is here for, and we'll continue to make sure the local community has a voice in how the Lido is run.

We expect to be able to give a fuller update on the new working relationship with Active Lambeth at the AGM in November.