Ostend approves demolition of former swimming pool

“This marks the start of the revaluation of the historic site with the thermal baths, galleries and Wellington. The site will be sown with grass for the time being to restore it to its original state.

There will be a study to determine the construction and layout of the future open space with greenery. The use of the site is closely related to the redevelopment of the Thermae Palace.

Complete demolition

The Board of Mayor and Aldermen therefore approved the demolition of the old swimming pool along Koninginnelaan. “Due to the poor condition of the building, renovation would represent an enormous financial cost. This cost is disproportionate to repurposing with great added value for the monuments in the immediate vicinity.

The old municipal swimming pool will be completely demolished. All underground structures, which are released during demolition, will be demolished. The outdoor pools, pavement and fences will be removed. The footprint of the swimming pool building and all outdoor structures are also filled with soil that can be compacted.”

Study for new use of open space with greenery

“The demolition will again give space to the monuments that elevate the site to one of the most striking places in Ostend. This marks the start of the historical recovery of the site. For the time being, the site will be sown with grass.”

“In this way we are returning the crucial heritage site to the situation it used to be: with the thermal baths, the galleries and the Wellington. We also comply with the requirements imposed by the right of superficies that expires at the end of this year. The agreement states that the building owner must restore the site to its original state,” said Alderman Kurt Claeys.

In the meantime, the final construction is being looked at in a broader context. There will be a study to determine the construction and layout of the future open space with greenery. The use of the site is closely related to the redevelopment of the Thermae Palace.