Chelsea Sports Centre’s historic swimming pool is set to undergo a £1.3 million refurbishment, with RBKC Council unveiling plans to modernise the 119-year-old facility while preserving its heritage.
The investment will see the pool close from 12th July until November 2026 as contractors carry out extensive improvement works designed to secure the building’s future for generations to come.
Originally opened in April 1907, the Chelsea Manor Street pool is one of the area’s longest-standing public leisure facilities. The refurbishment will include replacing the roof, resurfacing the main pool and the smaller learning pool for beginners, and reshaping the main pool to create a more flexible layout. The depth will also be standardised to a gradient of between one and 1.8 metres, making it better suited to swimming lessons and a wider range of users.
The Council says the project will also significantly improve the building’s energy efficiency, reducing both water and energy consumption while retaining the pool’s historic character.
Cllr Josh Rendall, lead member for leisure facilities, said: “This historic pool has been in use for 119 years, making it an important part of the borough’s history, as well as a vital health and fitness facility for Chelsea.
“This investment protects a valued heritage asset, suiting it to the needs of residents in 2026, and boosting its energy efficiency so that it can be enjoyed for decades to come.”
The refurbishment is being delivered by the Council in partnership with leisure operator GLL. The £1.3 million scheme is being funded through Section 106 developer contributions alongside grant funding.
The Council says the timing of the closure has been chosen to minimise disruption to pool users and school bookings. During the works, GLL members will be able to use alternative leisure centres, both locally and in other areas of the country.
The project forms part of the Council’s wider plans to invest in healthier communities, improve the efficiency of public buildings and protect the borough’s historic assets.
