Getting on to an Island

Prior to 1927 the only road connection between Portsea Island and the mainland was an inconvenient and slow swing bridge over Portsbridge at Hilsea. This was improved to a permanent road but prompted by concern caused by the terrible blitz of early 1941 (getting help onto the Island and potentially evacuating everyone off), another route, the Eastern Road, was completed during World War II. The M275 subsequently opened in 1976 allowing access straight to the heart of Portsmouth. These three routes still remain the only road links off Portsea Island today.

Hilsea Lido

In the 1930s there was increased interest in leisure pursuits. In Portsmouth the Hilsea Lido was opened by the Mayor in July 1935 and flourished. It was a sizable undertaking having a café, paddling pool, sunbathing deck, a diving board, chutes and facilities for 1,000. Built by the council and used as an unemployment reduction scheme, it cost £36,000 and took seven months to build. Its striking architecture is typical of the era.

After World War II, the Lido reopened in 1947 but never regained its original popularity. After many problems, it is now supported by a lively community group. To find out more: http://www.hilsea-lido.org.uk/