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Eastney Swimming Pool in Portsmouth first opened in 1904, built on the site of a former gravel pit and originally tied to the nearby Royal Marines Barracks. For generations it served both the military and local residents, and it even played a role in training during the Second World War, when the “Cockleshell Heroes” prepared here for their covert operations. Over time it became a much-loved community facility, with thousands of children learning to swim within its walls.
The pool finally closed in March 2020 when COVID-19 restrictions forced leisure centres across the country to shut their doors. While many reopened in later months, Eastney never did. Years of underlying issues—structural deterioration, outdated facilities, and accessibility problems—meant reopening was no longer viable. Surveys highlighted major defects: the roof and masonry were failing, the pool tank had cracked and filled with groundwater, and the building itself had become unsafe.
After standing unused and deteriorating further for several years, Portsmouth City Council confirmed in early 2025 that Eastney Pool would be demolished. The decision marked the end of more than a century of service, but also opened the door for new development. The council has committed to building a modern replacement at Bransbury Park, less than a kilometre away, which will feature a 25-metre pool, learner pool, gym, fitness studios, and even a GP surgery. This new facility is expected to open in 2027.
The Eastney site itself will not be lost to private development. Instead, it is set to become part of the city’s seafront masterplan, with proposals for a new watersports hub. Early concepts include changing rooms, showers, storage areas, and spaces to support activities such as kitesurfing, paddleboarding, kayaking, and rowing, along with possible community amenities like a café.
The pool finally closed in March 2020 when COVID-19 restrictions forced leisure centres across the country to shut their doors. While many reopened in later months, Eastney never did. Years of underlying issues—structural deterioration, outdated facilities, and accessibility problems—meant reopening was no longer viable. Surveys highlighted major defects: the roof and masonry were failing, the pool tank had cracked and filled with groundwater, and the building itself had become unsafe.
After standing unused and deteriorating further for several years, Portsmouth City Council confirmed in early 2025 that Eastney Pool would be demolished. The decision marked the end of more than a century of service, but also opened the door for new development. The council has committed to building a modern replacement at Bransbury Park, less than a kilometre away, which will feature a 25-metre pool, learner pool, gym, fitness studios, and even a GP surgery. This new facility is expected to open in 2027.
The Eastney site itself will not be lost to private development. Instead, it is set to become part of the city’s seafront masterplan, with proposals for a new watersports hub. Early concepts include changing rooms, showers, storage areas, and spaces to support activities such as kitesurfing, paddleboarding, kayaking, and rowing, along with possible community amenities like a café.
