Canary Wharf is planning to launch an Olympic-sized open-water lido at Eden Dock as part of its ongoing efforts to broaden its leisure facilities.
Due to open next summer – pending planning consent – Sea Lanes Canary Wharf will feature a natural water lido, alongside saunas, a clubhouse and a restaurant.
“Almost one year on from the opening of Eden Dock, we’re making another bold step forward,” Shobi Khan, CEO at Canary Wharf Group said. “Sea Lanes Canary Wharf will build on the success of Eden Dock as a unique wellness destination”.
The pioneering Eden Dock, developed in partnership with the Eden project, was launched last autumn. Drawing inspiration from mounting environmental pressures, including biodiversity decline and urban population density, CWG highlighted the importance of being a “part of the solution”, describing the initiative as a “blueprint” for others, as reported by City AM.
The fully supervised six-lane, 50m long lido will maintain a consistent depth of 1.3m and will be positioned within the dock, which remains separate from the River Thames and benefits from natural filtration.
Ross Gilbert, Director at Sea Lanes said: “Our vision is to bring people and nature closer together by offering a fully accessible floating freshwater pool, lifeguarded and open year-round, supported by a hub of health, wellbeing and food and beverage businesses.”
Canary Wharf has recently experienced a period of transformation, evolving from a banking hub to a retail destination featuring residential developments and enhanced cultural offerings. Last year, it was recognised as the UK’s top retail destination.
Over 40 new stores and leisure facilities were launched in the area last year, increasing the total number of venues to 320. The opening of the Elizabeth Line, which connects Canary Wharf to central London and Heathrow in less than an hour, provided a significant boost.
According to its data, only 40% of those who visited Canary Wharf in 2023 were going to the office.
