Supporters of Ipswich's Broomhill Lido have been celebrating after hearing that rebuilding work should soon get underway - and it should be open again in 2026.

Mark Ling from the Broomhill Pool Trust was delighted to get confirmation of the news he's waited years to hear.

He said: "What a wonderful way to start the year! This really is news to lift the spirits of the whole town.

“A significant breakthrough for Broomhill Pool is announced today as stakeholders agree a funding package to get its restoration restarted.

"To their huge credit both Ipswich Borough Council (IBC) and National Lottery Heritage Fund (NLHF) have both upped their commitment and financial stake.

"Additionally, Fusion-Lifestyle brings considerable expertise. They are the largest operator of heritage lidos and pools in the UK.

"They have unrivalled experience with heritage pools and lidos funding, restoration, and operation.

"The Broomhill Pool Trust has worked to keep the campaign fresh, relevant, publicly engaged and backed for over 20 years.

"Broomhill Pool enjoys cross-party political and great public support because it was an outstanding asset for Ipswich and because it will be again.

"The Trust looks forward to working in partnership with all the stakeholders during the restoration process and as an active community partner for one of Britain's finest lidos."

The Trust has been working to re-open the pool ever since the borough council decided, in early 2003, that it was not safe to reopen the pool for its summer season.

Since then there has been 20 years of campaigning and a false dawn in 2020 when everything was ready for work to start just as the Covid pandemic hit the world.

The news was also welcomed by Ipswich Labour candidate Jack Abbott who said: "This is absolutely brilliant news. Broomhill Lido is an iconic Ipswich landmark, and this funding will mean it can be brought to life once again."