Oasis Beach Pool has been put up for sale, a year after Bedford Borough Council spent £500,000 refurbishing the facility before deciding to close it after a report found there were ‘no viable options to maintain the existing facility as is or with modifications to the existing building.’
The news will reignite debate around how the pool has been managed and whether Bedfordians have been let down.
For more than 30 years, the pyramid-shaped Oasis has been part of Bedford’s leisure landscape, but its future now lies in the hands of whoever steps forward to take on the 6.29-acre site.
A short-lived relaunch
The pool first opened in 1991 as a family-friendly destination and remains one of Bedford’s most recognisable landmarks.
In May 2024, the council announced a £500,000 investment in new boilers, lighting, ventilation and repairs. The pool reopened during half-term with a launch event, billed as a sign of commitment to the pool’s future.
Read: Oasis Beach Pool announces half-term launch party following £500,000 investment
By November, executive councillors voted to close the building, citing high running costs. The decision led to political clashes and anger from locals who questioned why such a large sum had been spent only months earlier.
Read: Oasis leisure pool earmarked for permanent closure
At the time, Mayor Tom Wootton said the way Oasis had been managed in the past made him “quite angry” and that he was “so sad that it’s run down”.
Read: Mayor clashes with opposition as Councillors agree to close Oasis Beach Pool
Announcing the site’s sale, Cllr Sarah Gallagher (Conservative, Shortstown), Portfolio Holder for Customer Experience, Leisure and Culture, said: “We are looking for a partner who can bring fresh vision and energy to this important site while respecting its leisure heritage.
“Oasis Beach Pool has been a much-loved facility and as part of our leisure strategy, we have committed to protecting the site for leisure use for future generations of residents and visitors.
“With the right investment and stewardship, the site’s future as a vibrant and inclusive destination can be secured to benefit the whole community.”
What’s for sale?
The sale includes parking for approximately 200 cars and is conveniently located near Aspects Leisure Park, Tesco Extra, and the River Great Ouse. The listing suggests there is also potential to develop outdoor leisure uses on the adjoining riverside land.
The Council highlights the site’s location within the Oxford to Cambridge Growth Corridor, its strong transport links, and the potential impact of the planned Universal Destinations & Experiences theme park south of Bedford.
Colliers’ Licensed & Leisure team has been appointed to find a long-term partner to acquire and regenerate the Cardington Road site on a long leasehold, restricted for leisure use.
Paul Bugeja from Colliers added, “The Oasis Beach Pool site offers a rare chance to acquire a substantial, well-located leisure site in a town undergoing significant transformation.
“Its scale and proximity to existing and planned leisure amenities, including the Universal Destinations & Experiences resort, make it a compelling proposition for investors and operators focused on sustainable, community-driven leisure ventures.”
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