East London is transforming into a natural swimming haven with two major projects set to provide residents with unique aquatic experiences. The Sea Lanes project at Canary Wharf recently received planning permission for a floating natural water swimming pool in Eden Dock, while the East London Waterworks Park aims to create wild swimming ponds from uncovered old filter beds.
The Sea Lanes facility will feature a 50-meter six-lane pool, operated by the team behind the UK’s first National Open Water Swimming Centre in Brighton. Construction is scheduled to begin in early 2026, with an expected opening in summer of the same year. The pool will be open 364 days annually, offering both pay-per-swim and membership options for swimmers of all ages and skill levels.
Water quality at Eden Dock consistently achieves an “Excellent” rating under EU Bathing Standards, with regular testing guaranteeing safe swimming conditions. The fixed-depth 1.3-meter pool will be fully lifeguarded, serving as a stepping stone between traditional pools and open water swimming.
Meanwhile, the East London Waterworks Park represents an ambitious vision for a 14-acre former concrete site. The community-owned project would create the first new wild swimming ponds in London since 1770, with capacity for 1,200 swimmers daily. The design includes 3,000 square meters of swimming ponds, complemented by extensive reed bed filtration systems and a beach area. The project will focus on capturing industrial wilderness while enhancing the ecological value of the Lea Valley area.
The Waterworks Park project has engaged extensively with the local community, conducting four years of discussions to promote inclusive design. The initiative has already raised over £500,000 from 5,000 donors and won the 2024 People’s Choice award in the Reimagine London competition.
Both projects emphasize natural water experiences and biodiversity enhancement in urban settings. Sea Lanes will also include a community clubhouse featuring two renewable energy-powered saunas and year-round wellness events to support local health initiatives. The Waterworks Park plans have faced opposition from government officials who proposed using the site for a secure children’s home instead. While Sea Lanes has secured approval and has a defined timeline, the Waterworks Park remains in the campaign phase, operating as a registered charity opposing development plans for the Metropolitan Open Land site.
Together, these initiatives promise to greatly expand access to natural swimming in East London’s urban landscape.
