[3] The oldest parts of the complex are the unheated outdoor swimming pool, two fountains, an entrance building and a grandstand structure,[4] all of which are Grade II listed.

[5] At opening the pool measured 220 by 72.5 feet (67.1 m × 22.1 m),[6] and took the form of an elongated twelve-sided star in plan – it is the only remaining example in the country.

The concrete and brick entrance building at the northern end of the complex has a single storey and has a splayed "U"-shape in plan.

The grandstand on the eastern side of the lido is built of reinforced concrete and has three levels including the open flat roofed viewing terrace.

[10] Athletes participating in the 1948 Summer Olympics in London were housed at the nearby RAF Uxbridge, and used the pool to train in.

They installed solar heating panels and a huge water slide, as well as additional dry-side activities to try to improve the viability of the pool.

The current closure after the 1998 season was prompted by damage attributed to incursions from travellers, as well as the perceived need for major expenditure to bring the facilities up to recent Health and Safety standards.

[18] In January 2008, the contractors Leadbitter, with a design team headed by FaulknerBrowns Architects, began work on the £21m swimming pool complex that would be used by budding Olympians in the run up to the 2012 games.

[22] In May 2009 a topping out ceremony was held, attended by councillors, the construction firm and members of the local residents' association.