A 119-year-old West London swimming pool, a cherished Kensington and Chelsea heritage asset, is closing for a £1.3 million council-funded makeover lasting approximately four months.
The Chelsea Sports Centre pool, opened in April 1907, will be out of action from Sunday 12 July until November.
The revamp includes replacing pool mechanics and the roof, reshaping the main pool to a standardised 1.8-metre depth, and refurbishing surfaces.
The upgrades also aim to reduce water and energy demand.
Members can access alternative Greenwich Leisure Limited (GLL) centres locally and across the UK during this period.
Cllr Elizabeth Campbell, Leader of Kensington and Chelsea Council and Royal Hospital ward councillor, said: “For generations, Chelsea Sports Centre has been where local children have learned to swim, families have spent time together and residents of all ages have stayed active.
“This pool has been a part of Chelsea life for almost 120 years, and this investment means it can continue serving local people for the next century.”
The improvements are being delivered by the council in partnership with GLL.
Funding will come from Section 106 money, which comes from developers, as well as grant funding.
Cllr Josh Rendall, lead member with responsibility 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.”