Brussels' only open-air swimming pool, which closed two days after it opened as water quality had fallen below acceptable levels, is once again welcoming swimmers from Thursday after being closed for almost two weeks.
FLOW announced the start of the summer swim season on 5 July with enthusiasm but two days later, on Friday 7 July, it closed its doors again due to poor water quality. The decision followed consultation with Brulabo, the laboratory responsible for conducting the water quality tests.
"The water quality is again very good, compliant with all regulations. We are looking forward to finally welcoming you again for a swim," the organisation noted.
Problems with organic filter
The open-air pool on the Anderlecht canals uses a biological water treatment system, which was the reason behind the closure. Levels of the Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria which can cause ear and skin infections in vulnerable people, were deemed too high.
After a thorough cleaning of the pipes and filter and adding a "starter solution that promotes the development of microbiological biofilm around the gravel in the water filter that contributes most to water treatment," the pool is once again operational.
The new organic filter replaces chlorine, which was used beforehand. Once the filter has developed the necessary ecosystem of microorganisms, it can break down bacteria provided there is no new contamination.
Credit: FLOW
The bathing spot, located at the Pierre Marchant bridge, was launched in 2021 by Pool is Cool, an organisation campaigning for open-air swimming in Brussels. It has become popular among locals in the summer months until early September. During this period, it is open every day of the week.
As was the case in the previous two years, mornings from Tuesday to Friday are reserved for organisations to plan group swimming sessions for free, while during weekends, the mornings are reserved for (free) swimming lessons for children, teenagers and adults.
Reservations can be made free of charge on-site, but those looking to get in early and book their 45-minute time slot for an afternoon swim (from 13:00 until 19:00) can do so from Tuesday 4 July via the booking page for a reservation fee of €3 for adults and €2 for children, 24 hours in advance.
