Residents throughout Springburn and the broader north of Glasgow are set to welcome the reopening of Springburn Pool. Following a good sized refurbishment programme, the pool has been modernised – securing its destiny for generations to come.
Glasgow Life has announced that Springburn Pool will reopen to the general public on 23 June, in time for the school summer holidays. The reopening marks the end of an intensive refurbishment designed to enhance the beauty of the swimming environment and make sure the pool continues to serve the people of the area for decades ahead.
A brief history of Springburn Pool
Springburn Pool occupies the site of the former Springburn Public Baths and Wash-House on Kay Street, a facility that served the community from its opening in 1898 through to the 1970s. Originally a bath house for men and boys, it expanded to allow all members of the community to use its facilities, which included the baths and laundry rooms.
In the mid 1980s a sports centre opened up on the site, and a decade later, with the introduction of a swimming pool, a gym, a dance studio, a health suite and a soft play area, it was rebranded as the Springburn Leisure Centre. Over the years it has grown to become one of the North Glasgow community’s most beloved public centres.
For many the pool has been more than just a place to swim. It has been somewhere where children have learned essential water safety skills, athletes have trained and improved their talents, older citizens have maintained their fitness, and friends and families have come together for social connection.
Why was Springburn Pool closed?
The pool was closed for nearly a year to allow for a significant refurbishment programme. It was the fifth pool in Glasgow to undergo refurbishment since 2023, as part of a wider project across Glasgow City to ensure that future generations have access to swimming. The works carried out included:
- Upgrading the pool operating system
- Upgrading the air handling units
- Refurbishing the changing village, poolside showers, and toilets
- Poolside redecoration and new tiling
- Installing new energy-efficient boilers
- New signage and refreshed Glasgow Life branding
- Installing a new, modern ventilation system
Who benefits from the reopening?
The reopening will benefit not only the residents of Springburn but also those of the neighbouring communities. Local schools, swimming lesson providers and children’s activity businesses will once again have access to a modern facility where children can learn to swim and build confidence in the water. Families will benefit from a safe and welcoming space for recreation, exercise, and spending quality time together.
Swimming remains one of the most accessible forms of exercise for older adults, supporting mobility, cardiovascular health, and overall wellbeing. Local clubs and organisations that rely on the pool for activities, training, and social engagement will now be able to resume their programmes.
A vital community asset
Springburn Pool has long been regarded as a cornerstone of community life in the north of Glasgow. As one of the area’s main public swimming facilities, it supports health, wellbeing, social inclusion and community cohesion.
Access to affordable leisure facilities plays an important role in improving physical and mental health, reducing isolation and encouraging active lifestyles.
The reopening represents more than the return of a swimming pool – it marks the restoration of a valued community space where generations of local people have learned, exercised, connected and thrived.
Political statements
I had the chance to speak with Paul Sweeney MSP. He said “I learned to swim at Springburn Leisure Centre, and I’m delighted to see it rejuvenated and reopening after nearly a year of refurbishment works. For the last 30 years, the swimming pool in Springburn has been the heart of the community, a place where youngsters can learn to swim. I certainly got my swimming badges there and had a great time building my confidence as a swimmer. So hopefully, we’ll see the community back in, using it before long, and it’s great to have it back open before the summer holidays.”
Cllr Graham Campbell said:
“It’s been a really good thing that the pool has been refurbished. It’s taken longer than we hoped it would, but I’m very pleased to say that, after some time, it will open on Tuesday, 23rd June. It will be open from 6:00 am until 9:00 pm, Monday to Friday, and then on Saturdays and Sundays for slightly shorter hours, but it will be open all week. That’s really good, as people really need swimming. I’m really pleased that Springburn has its pool back in operation.”
As Springburn Pool reopens its doors, local residents will once again have access to a modern, accessible and sustainable facility that will continue its proud tradition of serving the community for many years to come.
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