An Art Deco 1930s lido has been restored to its former glory as a result of the team efforts of two construction companies during the year both firms celebrated their fortieth anniversaries. Ronacrete, and Cemplas were formed in 1969 and their wide-ranging experience and versatile approach of both companies proved ideally suited to the challenges of restoring one of London’s most iconic landmarks.
Originally built in 1935 the lido was an elongated 12 sided star in shape with two fountains at either end. The lido closed in 1998 and since then had fallen into disrepair and was covered in graffiti.
The refurbishment which was overseen by English Heritage involved restoring the Lido’s distinctive features, such as the grandstands, cascades and entrance, which have survived almost unchanged since the leisure centre opened in the 1930s.
The grade II-listed open air swimming pool, perhaps the Lido’s most recognizable attraction, was also lovingly refurbished.
A major part of the refurbishment work was to the Lido North Block. Ronacrete and Cemplas worked closely in putting a specification together that would provide the necessary protection and cosmetic appearance required by English Heritage. Cemplas grit blasted the entire surface to remove the old existing coatings before chasing out cracked sections in the brickwork and installing a Helibar system to restore the original structural integrity.
Following the structural remedial repairs, all elevations of the North Block were given a new surface finish using Ronafix SBR polymer to provide a modified waterproof render. On completion of the application of the Ronafix render, Cemplas overcoated the building with Ronacrete’s Joltec elastomeric protective/decorative coating.