A new floating, natural water lido could be coming to Canary Wharf next summer.
Plans have been submitted to Tower Hamlets Council for a new outdoor pool that will be open all year round, compete with saunas and a community clubhouse.
The proposals were submitted by the Canary Wharf Group (CWG), who were responsible for the regeneration of 128 acres in east London’s former Docklands.
The lido has been designed by the hugely successful team behind Sea Lanes Brighton, Britain’s first National Open Water Swimming Centre.
Sea Lanes have designed the new Canary Wharf pool and would built and operate the site if it is approved.
The fully lifeguarded six-lane, 50m long lido will have a fixed depth of 1.3 m and will float in the dock, allowing swimmers to immerse themselves in the clear, natural water.
The water in Eden Dock is cut off from the River Thames and naturally filtered. The dock is consistently rated “Excellent” by EU Bathing Standards and is already a firm-favourite of open water swimmers across the UK.
The Eden Dock, which was created in partnership with the Eden Project, is described by the CWG as “an urban oasis in the heart of Canary Wharf”.
The transformed dock is full of plants and wildlife and Londoners can currently paddleboard, kayak and swim in the dock.
Ross Gilbert, Director at Sea Lanes said: “Sea Lanes is excited to be partnering with Canary Wharf Group on proposals for a new National Open Water Swimming Centre in the heart of Canary Wharf, building on the fantastic work already accomplished in the neighbourhood to open up Eden Dock for everyone to enjoy.
“Our vision is to bring people and nature closer together by offering a fully accessible floating freshwater pool, lifeguarded and open year-round, supported by a hub of health, wellbeing and food and beverage businesses.
“We are excited to hear what the local community have to say about our proposals.”
A planning application is expected to be submitted to Tower Hamlets Council in September, with the site aiming to open next summer.
Shobi Khan, CEO at CWG, added: “Almost one year on from the opening of Eden Dock, we’re making another bold step forward in the enhancement of our green and blue spaces at Canary Wharf.
“Sea Lanes Canary Wharf will build on the success of Eden Dock as a unique wellness destination, where access to nature, leisure and world-class amenities are seamlessly integrated.”
