FIRST LOOK: at proposed heated public pool for Dublin’s George’s Dock
The Dublin City Lido Campaign announced the release of its latest design and conceptual images for a public outdoor swimming pool (Lido) at George’s Dock, Dublin. Created in partnership with acclaimed outdoor swimming architect Chris Romer-Lee of Studio Octopi and funded through an ongoing GoFundMe campaign, the images confirm the genuine opportunity that exists for the people of Dublin and beyond to enjoy a state-of-the-art heated outdoor swimming facility.
The updated designs include an accessible 50-metre all-season heated pool, a smaller learning pool, sauna and plunge pool, changing facilities, water gardens with public seating, restored dock walls, community function room, a café, and viewing gallery. The conceptual images have been updated from previous versions released in 2023 to take into account feedback from Dublin City Councillors and members of the DCC executive.
“These images communicate the enormous benefit a Lido would bring to people in Dublin including long-established local communities, residents throughout the city, and visitors to the capital,” said Patrick Earls, founder of the Dublin City Lido campaign. “A heated outdoor pool would ensure year-round access for all types of swimmers, providing our city with an inclusive and unique facility.”
Outdoor heated swimming pools, often referred to as lidos, have been revitalized in various cities worldwide, offering year-round swimming experiences. Here are some notable examples:
Allas Sea Pool, Helsinki, is a unique combination of saunas, wellness facilities and outdoor pools overlooking the Baltic Sea.
Vesturbæjarlaug, Reykjavík, an outdoor pool and children’s pool, waterslide, four hot tubs, steam bath, sauna and gym.
Dublin once had a thriving of tradition of outdoor swimming facilities, such as the Dún Laoghaire Baths. These baths were a amenity for recreation and community life.
