The City of Brussels has reaffirmed its commitment to building an open-air swimming pool on the Béco canal, a long-anticipated project that has faced over a decade of delays.
The announcement came as part of the new administration agreement unveiled by the municipal council, highlighting the city’s renewed focus on enhancing sports infrastructure.
First conceptualized in 2009 following an architectural competition, the canal pool has faced numerous obstacles, including funding disputes and stalled construction timelines.
Despite these challenges, the city’s new administration has pledged to move forward with the project, which is set to be located near the Tour & Taxis site.
The open-air pool will be constructed through a public-private partnership (PPP), a model the city believes will ensure efficient financing and timely delivery.
While specific details about the pool’s dimensions and features remain scarce, earlier proposals by architect Gérald Ledent included a 300-meter outdoor pool, which he described as a transformative addition to Brussels’ urban landscape.
“It’s encouraging to see this commitment,” Ledent told Bruzz, adding that the project would significantly increase the accessibility of swimming facilities in the capital.
Addressing a Growing Demand for Recreational Facilities
The canal pool is part of a broader initiative outlined in the administration agreement to improve sports amenities across the city over the next six years.
These projects aim to meet the growing demand for recreational spaces while enhancing the quality of life for Brussels residents.
A key feature of this plan includes extending the operational hours of existing swimming pools to promote better work-life balance.
The City of Brussels acknowledges that current facilities often have limited hours, making it challenging for many residents to incorporate swimming into their daily routines.
By broadening accessibility, the city hopes to encourage more widespread participation in recreational activities.
Long Road to Realization
The idea of a swimming pool on the Béco canal has captured public imagination since its inception in 2009. However, delays have left many skeptical about its viability. Early enthusiasm dwindled as the project encountered repeated financial and logistical hurdles, with plans falling apart several times.
The new administration agreement, however, seeks to turn the tide. By committing to the PPP model, the city aims to mitigate previous challenges, ensuring that the canal pool progresses from vision to reality.
Urban Renewal and Community Benefits
Located near Tour & Taxis, the swimming pool is expected to contribute to the revitalization of the canal area. Once completed, the pool will serve as both a recreational facility and a symbol of urban renewal, attracting residents and visitors alike.
The City of Brussels envisions the canal pool as a cornerstone of its strategy to enhance community well-being, create vibrant public spaces, and make the city more livable. As preparations for construction get underway, many hope the project will finally deliver on its promise.
For now, the residents of Brussels await further updates, optimistic that the Béco canal pool will soon become a reality after years of anticipation.
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