Lido pool and funfair rides planned for Porthcawl

Bridgend County Borough Council has unveiled final plans for the £multi-million regeneration of Porthcawl Waterfront, including an outdoor lido swimming pool, brand new funfair rides, and major changes following public feedback.

The lido would be located at Salt Lake opposite the marina and incorporate a gym, restaurant, café and other facilities. New funfair rides would be situated at the opposite end of Salt Lake near Aldi, creating iconic seafront landmarks that celebrate the town’s heritage.

In direct response to residents’ concerns, housing numbers have been reduced to approximately 980 homes, and building heights have been lowered by 20% across the site – meaning structures originally planned at 5-6 storeys will now be no taller than 3-4 storeys.

The masterplan features 45% more public open space than previous proposals, with plans for a splash pad, mini golf, pump track, skate park, multi-use games area, pocket parks, fitness trails, community gardens and children’s play areas. Griffin Park will treble in size, and a new promenade will provide improved access to Coney Beach and Sandy Bay.

The council intends to prioritise local people for housing, with up to 50% being affordable homes featuring a mix of tenures including shared and low-cost ownership. Restrictions will prevent most units from being used as holiday lets or second homes.

Council Leader John Spanswick said: “The final Porthcawl Waterfront Regeneration masterplan represents a hugely significant piece of work which has been many years in the making. While complementing other local developments such as the ongoing multi-million refurbishment of the Grand Pavilion, it reflects our determination to strike the right balance between housing and community facilities, tourism and leisure, opportunities for enabling new businesses to thrive and more.”

Councillor Neelo Farr, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Economic Development and Housing added: “In designing the final masterplan, we have delivered on our promise to listen to local people and reflect what they want to see while also ensuring that the proposals remain realistic, achievable and deliverable. I want to thank everyone who has contributed to this process as well as our regeneration partners at Welsh Government.”

Cabinet Secretary for Housing and Local Government, Jayne Bryant said: “This masterplan marks a bold and exciting step forward for Porthcawl, reimagining the seafront to deliver over 900 homes and new attractions that celebrate the town’s heritage. By placing local people at the heart of regeneration, we are not only protecting the town’s unique character but also unlocking its full potential as a vibrant and welcoming place to live, work and visit. The Welsh Government is proud to support Bridgend County Borough Council in delivering a future that balances homes, heritage, and opportunity.”

The public can view the plans at the Hi Tide on 25 November 2025 or online at www.porthcawlwaterfront.co.uk