Sint-Katelijne-Waver (Brussel Morning Newspaper) – Sint-Katelijne-Waver has announced plans to build a modern public swimming pool by 2030, aiming to expand swimming access for residents of all ages.
The two swimming pools that are currently in use are too old to be updated. A Flemish subsidy of 4.5 million will be given to the new complex. It must address the increasing need for swimming skills from residents, associations, and schools.
The two swimming pools that Sint-Katelijne-Waver, Belgium, now have are 50 years old and in terrible condition. For this reason, the municipality decided to build a new swimming pool instead of renovating Michielsbad and Maanhoevebad. By 2030, perhaps, that will be there.
This spring, about 2,000 people signed a petition opposing that plan. A number of elderly members of a swimming club were concerned that the new pool would not have enough space for them.
“That will certainly not be the case,”
says Tom Ongena (Samen Anders), alderman for Sports.
“We have consulted in recent weeks and thanks to an extra smaller instruction pool there will be room for everyone, including seniors who practice aqua gym.”
“With the new pool we can offer 72 swimming hours per week for recreational swimming. Now there are only 15. That is a huge step forward,”
says Ongena. In total, Sint-Katelijne-Waver will go to 400 square meters of swimming water compared to 288 now.
Toddlers can also learn how to swim on their own in the instruction pool. Many local inhabitants were worried that there would simply be a crowded swimming paradise.
That small pool will also have an adjustable bottom.
“That way, we can create a shallower children’s pool with play elements at certain times,”
says alderman Sarah De Keyser (CD&V).
“And the water is warmer, which is more pleasant for young swimmers.”
With a 25-meter sports pool, competitive swimming will also be possible.
“We can organize competitions and maybe even set up a swimming club,”
says Ongena.
“That was not feasible until now.”
The Flemish government is subsidizing 4.5 million euros of the anticipated 12 million euros needed for the new swimming pool.
“We hope to open the pool in 2030,”
concludes alderman Ongena. “Until then, the existing pools will remain open.”
What innovative features will the new swimming pool have for schools and residents?
Distinct pools for leisure, competitive, and learn-to-swim activities, enabling clubs and schools to plan training sessions without feeling crowded. For instance, having a smaller, warmer pool for instruction and wellness activities next to a larger pool that can be used for competitions.
Handrails, specialized elevator systems, and gently sloping entrances provide simple access for individuals of all ages and abilities, including kids and those with impairments.
For young children, splash pads, sensory play spaces, and aquatic playgrounds boost school swimming preparedness by encouraging water familiarization and enjoyment.
Advanced water circulation systems, variable speed pumps, solar-powered heaters, and LED lighting are used to enhance chemical distribution and cut energy use, which lowers operating costs and has a positive environmental impact.
