The pool and café at the Saltdean Lido is closing today (Monday 1 July) and tomorrow as a production films scenes for a television series based on a novel by Nick Cave.
The series, based on the Brighton singer and songwriter’s book The Death of Bunny Munro, is being filmed for a Sky Originals series.
Former Doctor Who actor Matt Smith, 41, who also appeared in The Crown and House of the Dragon, is to star in the six-part series. He is also executive producer.
The Lido emailed members and said: “We are very excited to announce that Saltdean Lido has been chosen as a location for a large-scale film production shoot.
“We can’t wait to see it on the big screen and promise to share details with you as soon as we are allowed.
“Also, as a result of the shoot we will earn significant financial incentives which will allow us to reinvest in our facilities, equipment, programme and staff.
“The days of the film shoot are Monday 1 July and Tuesday 2 July, during which time both the pool and the café will be closed.
“Season ticket holders will be allowed access to swim between 7am and 9am on both of these days.
“All other rooms within the Lido building besides the pool and the café will remain open, including exercise classes and the gym.
“There will be reduced card parking available.
“We apologise in advance for any inconvenience caused by this rare closure.”
The grade II* listed Lido has been restored and reopened after a long battle by local residents, initially through the Save Saltdean Lido Campaign.
The campaigners persuaded Brighton and Hove City Council, which owns the freehold of the site, to take back the lease granted to developer Dennis Audley who wanted to build housing on the site.
In the 12 years since, a lease was granted to the Saltdean Lido Community Interest Company (CIC) which has raised money, including through lottery grants, for the restoration of the pool and building.
Since the CIC was granted its 60-year lease in 2014, the pool has reopened – in 2017 – and this year the art deco building has reopened, with a café and restaurant.
On Wednesday (3 July) one of the regular guided tours of the lovingly restored Lido is due to start at 2pm, with tickets costing £10. To buy a ticket or for more information, click here.
