Efforts to secure the future of a historic 1930s lido in Saltdean, East Sussex, have received a boost after it was confirmed that the property's listing is to be upgraded to Grade II* status.

Save Saltdean Lido is working to safeguard the site as a multi-use community leisure facility, with London-based architects Conran and Partners working on the scheme. The campaign group had sought a review of the lido's listing from English Heritage, which has officially recommended its upgrade from Grade II to Grade II* with immediate effect.

Save Saltdean Lido chair Rebecca Crook said: "We hope that, with the new listing in place, [the lido] can be preserved and safeguarded for many more generations to enjoy." Plans drawn up for Saltdean Lido include a new outdoor exercise area; swimming provision; meeting rooms; a children's play area; and a 100sq m (1,076sq ft) gym.