Beneath this modern exterior lie echoes of a bygone era. Pools on the Park has been a cherished landmark in Richmond since 1966. Before this facility stood here, Richmond Baths served the community. The original baths opened in Parkshot in 1882. Imagine a time before heated pools and leisure centers.
Pools on the Park emerged from plans dating back to before the Second World War. Richmond Town Council envisioned an open-air swimming pool and sports pavilion in Old Deer Park. The 35,000-pound scheme was unfortunately postponed in September 1938. Finally, in 1966, Pools on the Park replaced the old Richmond Baths. Leslie Gooday designed this combination of indoor and outdoor pools.
Pools on the Park wasn’t just a local amenity. It gained recognition. In 1967 it received a Civic Trust award. Historic England acknowledges it as an ambitious use of glazed curtain walling. It also reflects the post-Wolfenden Report emphasis. This report focused on providing ample spectator seating.
Step inside Pools on the Park. You will discover a 33.3-meter pool and a learner pool inside. An open-air pool beckons swimmers outside. Julie McCarthy swam here in the 1960s. She remembers summer picnics and diving boards. The diving boards are now gone.
Pools on the Park faced potential changes in 1989. Richmond Council considered a pool and ice rink complex. The plan involved community benefits from an ice rink redevelopment in East Twickenham. Waterslides plc operated Wild Waters at Pools on the Park. They had four sets of flumes.
The ice rink project faced difficulties. It was suggested that reducing the S52 agreement value would facilitate planning. Ultimately, a smaller sum was agreed. It was invested in Pools on the Park. Wild Waters closed on October 28, 1989. Waterslides plc went into administration.
Today, Richmond Council manages Pools on the Park. It continues to be a valuable community asset. It has a long-established physiotherapy and osteopathy clinic. London Buses route 490 serves Pools on the Park from Heathrow Terminal 5.
Think about the generations who have swum here. Pools on the Park stands as a testament to community, recreation, and evolving leisure habits. It is more than just a swimming pool. It is a living piece of Richmond’s history.