New swimming Pool Coming to Kessel-Lo by 2029 Amid Closure of Existing facility

Kessel-Lo residents will soon have a new swimming facility, slated to open in 2029. The project comes as the existing pool is set to close, leaving a four-year gap in swimming availability.

Relocation and Construction Details

The new swimming pool, referred to as Pleterbad, will be located at the “event meadow in the domain.” This relocation is due to the current pool’s location in a flood-sensitive area. According to officials, the placement of the new pool will ensure it is “a lot further off from houses of local residents then is currently the case, so that there will be no nuisance for them.”

Future Plans and investments

Authorities are exploring the possibility of adding a 25-meter pool to the new facility, allowing for more serious lap swimming. “The province and Leuven will further investigate whether you can also invest in a 25 meter pool,so that real laps can also be taken.” The estimated cost for the construction is €11.7 million.

Temporary Closure and anticipated Reopening

The existing swimming pool is nearing the end of its lifespan and will be closed permanently. “The current swimming pool has been fully tired, and will no longer be hired.” This means that there will be “no swimming in Kessel-Lo for the next 4 years, until the new swimming pool is ready.”

Impact and Community Considerations

The closure of the current pool and the construction of a new one represent a significant shift for the Kessel-Lo community. While the four-year gap may present challenges, the new facility promises enhanced amenities and a more secure location, free from flood risks. Ensuring minimal disruption to nearby residents remains a priority.

The new Pleterbad represents a significant investment in kessel-Lo’s recreational infrastructure, promising a modern and enhanced swimming experience for residents by 2029. The project addresses environmental concerns and aims to provide a valuable community asset for years to come.

What are the plans for providing swimming alternatives for Kessel-Lo residents during the four-year period when the current pool is closed?

New Pleterbad Swimming Pool in Kessel-Lo: A Conversation with City Planner Annelies De Vries

Archyde recently learned about the planned construction of a new swimming pool, the Pleterbad, in Kessel-Lo, slated to open in 2029. With the current facility closing down, we sat down with Annelies De Vries, Senior City Planner for Leuven, to discuss the project’s details, impact, and future implications for the community.

Understanding the Need for Change

Archyde: Annelies, thank you for joining us. the news of a new swimming pool, especially with the closure of the existing one, has certainly caught the attention of Kessel-Lo residents. Can you elaborate on the reasons behind this significant project?

Annelies De Vries: Absolutely. The current swimming pool has simply reached the end of its useful life. It’s old, inefficient, and, crucially, located in a flood-prone area. The decision to build a new, modern facility, the Pleterbad, was driven by the need to provide a sustainable and safe swimming environment for the community for years to come.

Location, Location, Location: Addressing Community Concerns

Archyde: The Pleterbad will be located at the “event meadow in the domain.” Why was this location chosen, and how will it address potential concerns from nearby residents?

Annelies De Vries: The event meadow offers several key advantages. Firstly, it’s far less susceptible to flooding, ensuring the new swimming pool’s long-term viability.Secondly, its placement is significantly further away from residential properties than the current pool, minimizing potential noise and traffic disruptions for local residents. We understand their concerns and have prioritized minimizing any negative impact.

Bridging the Four-Year Gap: Swimming in Kessel-Lo

Archyde: The temporary closure of the current pool will leave a four-year gap in swimming availability. What alternatives are being considered for residents during this period?

Annelies De Vries: We recognize that this gap presents a challenge. While a temporary solution within kessel-Lo wasn’t feasible due to logistical and financial constraints, we are actively exploring partnerships with neighboring municipalities to provide accessible swimming options for our residents. Details on subsidized transportation and pool access in Leuven and surrounding areas will be announced shortly.

Investing in the Future: Amenities and the 25-Meter Pool

Archyde: The estimated cost for the Pleterbad is €11.7 million. What kind of amenities can residents expect, and what about the potential 25-meter pool?

Annelies De Vries: The €11.7 million will fund a state-of-the-art facility. This will include modern changing rooms, accessible features for all users, and enhanced water quality systems. Regarding the 25-meter pool, feasibility studies are underway, in collaboration with the province. We understand the importance of lap swimming for fitness and training,and we are committed to exploring all options to incorporate it into the Pleterbad if financially and logistically viable.

A Vision for Kessel-Lo: Beyond the swimming pool

archyde: The Pleterbad represents a significant investment in Kessel-Lo. How does this project fit into the broader vision for the community’s future recreational infrastructure?

Annelies De Vries: The Pleterbad is a cornerstone of our commitment to enhancing the quality of life for Kessel-Lo residents.It complements other initiatives focused on parks, green spaces, and community centers.We aim to create a vibrant and healthy community with access to a wide range of recreational opportunities.

Your Thoughts?

Archyde: what’s one thing you hope Kessel-Lo residents will keep in mind during this transition as they look forward to taking a dip in the new Kessel-Lo swimming pool?

Annelies De Vries: I would encourage them to see this temporary inconvenience as an investment in a long-term, superior swimming experience. The Pleterbad will be more than just a swimming pool; it will be a community hub,a source of pride,and a place for everyone to enjoy for generations to come.

Archyde: Annelies De Vries, thank you for your time and insights. Readers, what are your thoughts on the new Pleterbad? What amenities are most significant to you? Share your comments below!