THE current operator of the Lido has expressed his gratitude for support shown by Islanders at a recent protest – after it was confirmed he will be able to remain at the site until the end of next year after a last-minute agreement was struck with the government.
Marcus Calvani, of BeServed, said he had been “overwhelmed” by turnout for the “Save our Lido” demonstration held in the Royal Square on Wednesday afternoon, just hours before the new arrangement was announced.
The BeServed Group had initially been told by the government to end its operations at the Lido by the end of this month, with previous negotiations having floundered.
Ministers later argued that taking vacant possession of the site was also necessary to give it a “fresh start”.
Expressions of interest are still being sought from prospective new operators – with a formal tender process expected to be held at a later date – amid wider debate over the area’s future.
The States Assembly had been due to debate a proposition from Deputy David Warr, asking that Mr Calvani be permitted to continue to trade as normal until the tender process is completed.
But following last-minute negotiations with the government, as well as a protest in support of his proposal, Deputy Warr revealed that an agreement had been reached.
In a statement released yesterday morning, Assistant Infrastructure Minister Simon Crowcroft said: “Following productive discussions with Deputy David Warr, we have reached an agreement regarding the situation at the Lido.
“We can confirm that the current occupier will be able to remain on-site until the end of 2025.
“As part of this arrangement, the occupier will be required to sign a formal contract and cover rent and a portion of utility bills from the end of October. A tender process for the future operation of the Lido will proceed as planned.”
The statement continued: “We have always recognised the significant community value of the Lido and we are committed to its future rejuvenation. The government will continue with its planned maintenance works, which include vital improvements to the pool and surrounding facilities.
“We want to extend our gratitude to the public for their constructive engagement throughout this process. Together, we are finding a positive way forward for this cherished public landmark, ensuring it remains a vibrant space for generations to come.”
Mr Calvani said he was “relieved” for his staff, some of whom had been in tears in the lead-up to this week’s States sitting.
“I’m extremely happy that we’ve found a solution,” he continued, though he stressed that there was still “work to do” regarding the site’s long-term future.
But Mr Calvani described the agreement as a “big win for the people”, adding that he had been “overwhelmed” by the number of Islanders who took part in Wednesday’s demonstration.
“That was very emotional for me, because it’s been a solo fight for years.”
