Leith Victoria Swim Centre which is an iconic Victorian pool will be refurbished this winter starting on Monday, 12 August 2019. Due to the unique layout of the centre, the refurbishment will be phased, beginning with the closure of the pool and studio 2, which will both open again in February 2020.
Affectionately known as ‘Leith Viccies’, during phase one of the works, the gym, cycle studio and studio 1 will all remain open. Access to the venue will only be via the Bonnington Road entrance (car parking will be reduced). The Junction Place entrance will remain closed throughout this phase.
When the pool and studio 2 reopen in February 2020, phase two of the works will take place. This will involve the cycle studio and studio 1 closing for two weeks for improvement works.
The gym will remain open throughout and the centre will be fully operational again by March 2020.
Nicola Duffy, Leisure Manager at Leith Victoria Swim Centre said: ‘We’re unique in having five B-listed Victorian pools in our portfolio but from time to time, these historic venues need some ‘tlc’. The investment will future-proof the building so that customers can continue to enjoy its facilities for many years to come, as they have done for previous generations. We will, however, still maintain certain characteristics of ‘Viccie Baths’ to ensure they keep their charm, which is so loved by the people of Leith and, indeed Edinburgh.”
Duffy continued: ‘The part closure will obviously mean disruption to many of our customers. We have plans in place to provide customers with alternatives and we do hope our customers stay active with us here at ‘Viccies’ or at another Edinburgh Leisure venue.
Councillor Lezley Marion Cameron, Vice Convener for Finance and Resources at the City of Edinburgh Council, said: “We’re delighted to be investing in this major work at the much-loved Leith Victoria Swim Centre. The work will secure the safety and sustainability of the building for years to come and, importantly, will continue to provide opportunities for the people of Leith, Edinburgh and the many visitors to be active.”
Similar to the recent makeover at Dalry Swim Centre, which reopened to the public after a six-month closure in January 2019, much of the refurbishment will be behind the scenes and will include:
- A mechanical and electrical works, including improvements to the ventilation system and more energy efficient solutions;
- Structural improvements to the pool hall, including the windows and , maintenance work to the sandstone structure and roof.
- Maintenance work to the sandstone structure and roof
Updates at every stage will be posted on Edinburgh Leisure’s social media channels and website during the closure and customers have been informed of the impending renovations.
Leith Victoria Swim Centre
Junction Place, Edinburgh EH6 5JA Tel: 0131 555 4728
Founding Editor of The Edinburgh Reporter.
Edinburgh-born multimedia journalist and iPhoneographer.
