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 Hi Alan, I could not find the threads here, but I also remembered discussing swimming pools recently. There are a few in the old forum dating back to May, like this one: I tend to agree with you, for the very limited use and not having to deal with builders, permits and all the rest, the Lidl alternative sounds very reasonable.

I agree Allan a cheap pool is probably a good starting point although I would warn again the inflatable ring type. We installed one on our garden just outside Bagni di Lucca in late April last year but by July the sun has destroyed the inflatable ring and the pool was listing sadly and had to be thrown away ... just before the real August holidays! This year we have a rectangle pool with a frame and it seems to be fairing better, so far. But don't underestimate just how much work is involved with the chemicals and the pump. Other friends have hooked up a mini solar panel and they say their pool temperature has increased by 6 degrees! Happy splashing.

 Our pool has lasted a second year without any problems. It's still in it's box!Sprat

Doughnut style 3.5m dia PVC pool still going strong after 2 summers use. Tips - must be on a flat surface with very little slope (most terraces have some slope to carry away the rainwater) and you must have a skimmer (like a flat nylon net) to remove suicidal flying ants etc. Bacteria-free water is assured by a floating gizmo containing  a quarter of a tablet of solid chlorine stuff, lasts a week. all checks with little test kits show very good results. Pool great for a cooling wallow (cost 70 quid)