Seine swimming pools reopen as Brussels campaigners call for similar facilities

10 July 2025

The swimming pools in the river Seine in Paris, which shut for four days after their opening due to a risk of pollution following heavy rain, have reopened, the city council has announced. Meanwhile, campaigners in Brussels are planning an event this weekend calling for similar facilities in the city.

Swimming in the Seine had been banned since 1923 but it is now possible until 31 August, free of charge. However, rain on Sunday and Monday forced the city council to close the pools for four days, following their grand opening on Saturday.

There were more than 2,300 visitors to the three pools on the opening day. The sites consist of basins to separate swimmers from river traffic and have lifeguards, changing rooms, showers, toilets and an artificial beach. Flags at the entrance indicate the river’s flow and water quality.

The Seine was used last summer for the triathlon and 10km swim event at the Paris Olympics.

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In Brussels, the non-profit Pool is Cool will hold an event on Sunday repeating its call for outdoor swimming in the capital. Pool is Cool was the operator of Flow, the prototype open-air pool in Anderlecht that closed in May.

Sunday’s event was intended as an opportunity for supporters to swim in the canal together, but the Port of Brussels refused permission. Instead, there will be a parade, speeches, music, pancakes and kayak rides.

"We believe parts of the canal could be transformed into safe and inviting swimming areas"

“Already today, people swim in the canal, simply because there are no alternatives,” the organisers say.

“We believe parts of the canal could be transformed into safe and inviting swimming areas – with smart infrastructure, modern technology and clear communication. Cities across Europe and the world have done just that, showing that urban swimming is both possible and valuable.”

^{People swim at the Pont Marie safe bathing site on the Seine on its opening day, Paris, 5 July 2025 © PHOTO JULIEN DE ROSA / AFP}

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