Lyon to Open New River Swimming Pool by 2027

The green majority in Lyon will vote on a proposal to create a 1500 m² swimming area in the Saône river, with operations entrusted to SPL Confluence.

📋

Quick Summary

1The city of Lyon is moving forward with plans to establish a new river swimming pool in the Saône, with a target opening date set for the summer of 2027.According to the proposal, the project involves the development of a 1,500 square meter bathing area.
2The city's green majority is scheduled to vote on a resolution during the next municipal council meeting.
3If approved, the operation will be entrusted to the SPL Confluence for the necessary development work.
4This initiative aims to provide residents with a direct connection to the river for recreational swimming.

Quick Summary

The city of Lyon is moving forward with plans to establish a new river swimming pool in the Saône, with a target opening date set for the summer of 2027.

According to the proposal, the project involves the development of a 1,500 square meter bathing area. The city's green majority is scheduled to vote on a resolution during the next municipal council meeting. If approved, the operation will be entrusted to the SPL Confluence for the necessary development work. This initiative aims to provide residents with a direct connection to the river for recreational swimming.

Project Overview and Scope

The Lyon municipal council is preparing to decide on a significant urban development project aimed at revitalizing the city's relationship with the Saône river. The proposal centers on the creation of a designated swimming area directly within the river flow.

The specific dimensions of the planned facility are set at 1,500 square meters. This space is intended to accommodate swimmers during the warmer months. The project represents a major step in making the river accessible for public recreation beyond boating and walking.

The timeline for this project is aggressive. Officials are targeting the summer of 2027 for the official opening of the site. This allows for the necessary planning, construction, and safety preparations required for a river-based facility.

"confiant à la SPL Confluence l’aménagement de 1500 m² de piscine dans la Saône"

— Municipal Resolution Proposal

Administrative Process 🏛️

The decision-making process is currently in motion. The ruling ecological majority in the city council has announced its intention to vote on a specific resolution during the upcoming municipal council session.

This resolution serves as the formal authorization to proceed. It specifically delegates the task of developing the site to a specific entity. The resolution text reads: "confiant à la SPL Confluence l’aménagement de 1500 m² de piscine dans la Saône" (entrusting the SPL Confluence with the development of 1500 m² of swimming pool in the Saône).

The SPL Confluence is a public limited company created by the City of Lyon and the Metropolis of Lyon. It is responsible for the development and management of the Confluence district, making it the logical administrative body to oversee such an infrastructure project in the river area.

Location and Impact

The project is situated in the Saône river, a central geographical feature of Lyon. The integration of a swimming pool into the river flow requires careful consideration of water quality and current management.

By creating a safe, controlled environment for swimming, the city hopes to enhance the quality of life for Lyonnais (residents of Lyon). The initiative aligns with broader urban trends of reclaiming natural spaces for public use.

Key aspects of the project include:

Development of a 1,500 m² area
Operation managed by SPL Confluence
Targeted launch in 2027
Located in the Saône river

Conclusion

The upcoming vote represents a pivotal moment for the city's infrastructure. If the resolution passes, Lyon will join a select group of major cities integrating river swimming into their urban fabric. The collaboration with SPL Confluence suggests a well-structured approach to the complex engineering and safety requirements of the project.

Residents and observers will be watching closely as the municipal council convenes to cast their votes. The decision will determine whether the vision of swimming in the Saône by 2027 becomes a reality.