frequently asked questions
GENERAL FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Whats best to wear at the Lidos
Its best to come beach ready but we do have changing rooms if needed
Is there shade at the Lidos
We have a small amount of shade but we advise to wear sun hats and glasses where possible
Can you hire loungers?
We have deck chairs available at Tinside to hire
What is a local authority trading company?
A local authority trading company (often referred to as an LATC or a LATCo) is a company that is wholly owned and controlled by a council.
A number of successful LATCs have already been established across the UK, including some operating leisure facilities. Some of these companies have been running for more than 10 years.
Can I park at the Centres and Lidos?
Yes, parking is available at all our sites, but please note that charges apply at some sites. See below:
| Centre | Price |
|---|---|
| Plymouth Life Centre | FREE |
| Plympton Pool and Gym | FREE |
| Mount Wise Pools | FREE |
| Tinside Pool | FEES APPLY - On-street short-stay parking in the immediate vicinity. Longer stay car parks are also available in the area. |
Are there lockers at the facilities?
Yes, lockers are available at all our facilities.
Will using the centre on a casual basis be more expensive?
It depends on your frequency of use, but if you intend to visit the centre at least twice a week then a membership will normally be the best value option for you. You can contact our sales team who will be happy to discuss the options available.
Can I change the collection date of my membership?
Unfortunately not, as we are only able to collect direct debits on the first of each month at present.
Can I try the centre before joining?
Yes, we can provide you with a free guest pass so you can try your local centre before taking out a membership. Please note: these are limited to one per person.
What age do I need to be to take part in a junior, adult or senior activity?
Unless specified, junior activities are for children aged 15 years and below. Adults are classed as 16 years and over and seniors are classed as 66 years and over.
Do you sell alcohol at the Lidos?
Unfortunately we do not sell alcohol during our usual trading hours. We do not permit alcohol within the Lidos.
When we are hosting events then sometime we do offer a bar but this is only during the Live at the Lido events.
Can I bring my own drinks to the Lidos?
Yes but please be mindful, No alcohol, No glass bottles!
Where can I buy a ball or suncream from?
We sell beach balls and suncream at Tinside Lido along with a selection of other essentials!
Is there free Wi-Fi at the centres?
Most of our sites offer free Wi-Fi. You will be required to enter a few details and accept the terms and conditions.
How do I track my child’s swimming lesson progress?
Our swimming lesson programme follows the Swim England Learn to Swim Framework and children will be awarded with badges and certificates along the way as they complete each stage. We monitor achievements via a system called Go Learn. This is an interactive system that allows swimmers and parents to view their progress. Please note: our swim teachers use tablets on poolside to take attendance and to monitor progress.
Will I need an induction before I can use the gym?
Yes, this ensures that you will be able to use the gym and fitness equipment correctly and safely. Staff are also available for further advice and guidance and to help you get the most out of your workout.
Can my child go swimming on their own?
Children under the age of 8 must be accompanied by their parent or by an adult over 18 years of age, with a maximum of 2 children under the age of 8 per adult.
Do you have a pool hoist to help me access the pools?
Yes, pool hoists and other means of assisted access are available at all pools (except Mount Wise). Speak to a member of staff who will be able to assist you.
What was Plymouth Actives Gender Pay Gap review?
Plymouth Active Leisure Ltd (PAL) is committed to providing a diverse and meaningful range of leisure, health and wellbeing related activities for our communities. Attracting and retaining a diverse workforce strengthens our ability to deliver these goals.
We are committed to equal opportunities and the fair treatment of our workforce and have a transparent and clear pay structure, paying employees equally for the same, or equivalent, work regardless of gender.
https://plymouthactive.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/gender-pay-gap-report-2022-23.pdf
What are the screens attached to the lifeguard chairs at the Life Centre?
These are linked to our drowning detection system, which uses underwater cameras to monitor the pool, and is designed to detect a lack of or irregular movement in the pool. It continuously scans the water, and alerts our lifeguards if it detects any signs of swimmers getting into difficulty.
Please contact us here with any questions not answered above.
