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Green light for Brussels’ first public outdoor swimming pool at Abattoir site

15:27 26/12/2022

The Brussels Region government has given the final green light for a new swimming complex on the Abattoir rooftop in Anderlecht, announced secretary of state for urbanism Pascal Smet.

His confirmation of further investment of just over €2.2 million means work will begin soon at the Manufakture, a multi-purpose building that houses a food hall and cattle market.

The future recreation facility on the site’s rooftop is due to be inaugurated in spring 2024 at a total cost of around €20 million. It will include both indoor and outdoor pools.

“Young and old will be able to swim in a unique place, with a stunning view of the city,” said Smet, who worked “long and hard” to obtain this decision. “This will make a huge difference to the quality of life for thousands of Brusseleers.”

The Flemish government is chipping in a total of €3.4 million for the complex, which involves private and public investors.

Brussels-Region prime minister Rudi Vervoort explained that the pool project was part of a broader partnership with Abattoir SA, and was partly financed by European FEDER funds.

“There will be up to 200 public housing units and the widely known market at the slaughterhouse will remain," he added.

Anderlecht mayor Fabrice Cumps welcomed the new development. “This project in the heart of a popular district shows the revival of all these urban areas where all Brussels’ challenges come together.”

Photo: © NV Abattoir - Baukunst

Written by The Bulletin