Sint-Katelijne-Waver (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Sint-Katelijne-Waver will build a new 25 m swimming pool at Dreefvelden by 2030. Alderman Tom Ongena says it will serve schools, residents, and clubs, replacing Michielsbad and Maanhoevebad.
As VRT News reported, Sint-Katelijne-Waver, in the province of Antwerp, Belgium, has chosen a site at the beginning of Dreefvelden for a new swimming pool. Officials said a new facility will meet safety standards, be energy-efficient, and serve the community for many years.
“We chose a location right in the city centre,”
explains Tom Ongena.
“The pool must be easily accessible for everyone. There’s a safe bike path for cyclists, and there’s also a bus stop on the street for those arriving by public transport. Car drivers will also be able to park right next to the pool”
What is planned for Sint-Katelijne-Waver’s new 25 m swimming Pool?
The new pool will serve schools, residents, and local sports clubs. It will be close enough for the 2 primary schools in the town centre.
“For the other primary schools, the municipal government will cover the costs of bus transportation to the new swimming pool. We already do this for the primary schools located a bit further from the Maanhoevebad and Michielsbad.”
“The new swimming pool is much larger and will have a 25-metre-long pool.”
Tom Ongena, Alderman for Sports (Together Different)
Sint-Katelijne-Waver will build a new swimming pool that is larger than the town’s current facilities. The new pool will include a 25-meter pool for lessons, club training, and competitions. Officials mentioned that its size will allow for more swimming options for residents of all ages. The pool is located across from another sports complex.
Officials say this could lead to collaborations between local sports clubs. The 2 existing pools, Michielsbad and Maanhoevebad, will stay open until the new pool is ready. After it opens, the town will look for new uses for the old buildings.
“We are busy with preparations. We appointed a project manager earlier this year, and he will help us with all the next steps.”
The municipality is actively seeking a company and contractor to design and construct the new swimming pool. Officials say the search is part of the town’s plan to ensure the facility meets modern standards and serves the community effectively.
The municipality aims to open the new swimming pool in 2030. The decision was confirmed at the end of June 2025. The town’s current pools, Michielsbad and Maanhoevebad, are outdated and cannot be renovated.
Belgium has seen many newly constructed or soon-to-be constructed public swimming pools replacing existing swimming facilities in numerous towns. Aartselaar, Hemiksem, and Niel’s new intermunicipal swimming pool was opened in 2022 and contains a 25m sports pool, shallow water and baby pools along with a cafe.
In Zaventem, they will begin construction of their new pool in 2025-2026 with assistance from the regional government. Lille completed its Balsakker swimming facility in 2024 and has both modern swimming pool facilities and recreational areas. In addition to this, the Flemish government is funding approximately 40 new swimming pool development projects across the region.
