Sir Terence Conran has joined the fight to save Saltdean Lido by instructing his architecture firm to draw up alternative redevelopment plans.
The Lido’s owner Dennis Audley says he has lost £250,000 running the lido over the past ten years, and has put forward plans to build scores of flats.
He says if the pool is to survive, he would need to build a six storey block of flats to make it financially viable.
But Sir Terence hopes his scheme will do a better job of preserving the Grade II listed outdoor pool.
He said: “I find it quite disgraceful that the lido has been left to rot. We must find ways to preserve our architectural heritage and breathe new life in to beautiful old buildings.”
Conran’s project architect, Paul Zara, is working free of charge. He is also behind the refurbishment of Embassy Court in Hove.
The Save Saltdean Lido campaign hopes to use his plans to help persuade the council to take back the lease from Mr Audley and let it to them on a not-for-profit basis.
Mr Audley’s architect, Mark Strawbridge, hopes to submit his design in September, which includes creating a new indoor pool, library and community centre.
Mr Audley is also set to strongly contest a recent statutory repair notice served by the council.
