Public swimming pool designs released for George’s Dock

Images have been released of a proposed public swimming pool for George’s Dock in Dublin 1.

The area had originally been earmarked for the controversial white-water rafting facility by Dublin City Council before plans were officially shelved back in December 2021.

However, the George’s Dock Lido Campaign (GDLC) group says a water-based leisure facility is appropriate for the site, albeit a less-niche one.

The group has released conceptual drawings for a public swimming pool and green space for the land which includes a “world class heated pool” and “assault courses and floating cinemas.”

Dublin City Council has discussed the idea of a swimming facility that could also be used to train emergency services, but GDLC is asking councillors to push forward with at 100 percent publicly owned amenity.

Patrick Earls, founder of the GDLC says the current council plan would allocate almost half of the city-centre site to a facility that would be unused for much of the year.

He says the group’s proposal would be a benefit to citizens, tourists, swimmers and non-swimmers.

“Every generation has a responsibility to contribute to the city’s civic infrastructure,” he says.

“The great landmark facilities we have, such as Phoenix Park, were a gift to us from previous generations.

“It is time for us now to step up and do something magnificent for the city and its future citizens.

“Providing a heated pool would ensure year-round access for all types of swimmers, whilst still allowing the magic of outdoor swimming to challenge our senses and bring us closer to nature.”

The campaign group says the designs include swimming pools, green space, and community facilities.

“We believe such a development could benefit all Dubliners including long established inner-city communities and residents of recently built apartments in the Docklands area,” the group said in a statement.

It has also engaged with local communities in the drafting of its proposal to seek ideas and support.

Lead architect Chris Romer-Lee, from Studio Octop, has included in the design a 50-metre all-season heated pool, a smaller learning pool, diving boards, saunas, water gardens with public seating, performance areas, community function rooms, a restaurant, café and viewing gallery.

“George’s Dock offers Dublin City Council the opportunity to provide a world class facility in a historic location,” he said.

“Because of the central location, the vision is for a facility that reaches everyone within Dublin and beyond, from school children to scuba divers, and triathletes to leisure swimmers.

“During the summer, special events could ensure increased access to the facility.

“Swimming and diving galas, a floating cinema or assault courses would all further enhance this facility and ensure its economic viability within the city.

“We look forward to continuing to develop this significant proposition for the citizens of Dublin,” he said.

Green Party councillor Donna Cooney said the concept for pool “looks great.

“Would be wonderful all year facility for swimmers of all ages and abilities.”