Portobello Swim Centre Refurbishment
About the Project
The City of Edinburgh Council, in partnership with Edinburgh Leisure, is planning a major refurbishment of Portobello Swim Centre – a much-loved and iconic part of the local community.
As a Category A listed building, it’s important we protect its historic character while modernising the building, growing capacity and improving the customer journey.
Thank you to everyone who took the time to share their feedback during the public consultation. We are currently reviewing all responses.
Current Status: Planning stage, with feedback from the public consultation currently being reviewed.
Quick Overview:
What’s Happening?
A proposed major refurbishment of the Portobello Swim Centre
Why Now?
The building requires significant repair and modernisation in order to protect its heritage and improve the customer experience. Portobello Swim Centre has been in operation for 125 years, we are investing for the next 125 years.
Is Portobello Swim Centre Closed?
No, the centre is open as normal. Any future works will be communicated well in advance.
Potential Improvements
The proposals for refurbishment focus on preserving what makes Portobello special, while improving how the building works for today’s needs. Potential improvements include:
- Modern, larger gym and studio space
- Improved customer journey
- Essential structural, mechanical and electrical works
- Protection of pools and Turkish Baths
- New and improved changing facilities
- Improved use of underutilised space
- Introduction of externally accessed toilets (for community use)
Plans For Consideration:
Option A
The below incorporates the main structural changes to the venue layout for this option.
- Gym – Relocated upstairs to an expanded area incorporating existing studio, former café and meeting rooms
- Fitness Studio – Moved downstairs to the current gym location
- Changing Rooms – Remain in their current location
Option B
The below incorporates the main structural changes to the venue layout for this option.
- Gym – Relocated upstairs to an expanded area incorporating existing studio, former café and meeting rooms
- Fitness Studio – Moved to the current changing village location
- Changing Rooms – Moved to the current gym location with the addition of changing cubicles on poolside