Brixton swimming pool gets a long-overdue refresh

Johannesburg, like the rest of the country, feels as though it’s been left in the oven, and as the city pushes through another stretch of intense summer heat, one of its legendary public swimming spots is quietly being prepared for a comeback.

The historic Brixton Swimming Pool, first built in 1938, is currently undergoing a careful renovation led by the Johannesburg Development Agency (JDA). The upgrades aim to restore and modernise the facility while preserving its heritage, ensuring it continues to serve the community for generations to come.

Long regarded as a cornerstone of Brixton life, the pool has hosted decades of childhood swim lessons, school outings and neighbourhood gatherings. According to the JDA, the current refurbishment is being carried out in line with heritage preservation guidelines, balancing necessary improvements with respect for the site’s original character.

In a recent social media update, the agency shared a behind-the-scenes look at the renovations, describing the pool as a “cherished community asset” and emphasising the importance of protecting its legacy while improving the experience for today’s users.

While no reopening date has been announced yet, the timing of the upgrade feels especially relevant. With the city in peak summer sun mode, access to well-maintained public swimming pools has become more important than ever, particularly in neighbourhoods where affordable ways to cool off are limited.

Once complete, the renewed Brixton Swimming Pool is expected to reclaim its place as one of Johannesburg’s most accessible and community-driven spots to escape the heat. Until then, Joburg residents looking for relief can explore the city’s existing public pools, splash parks and swimming spots.

For now, all eyes are on Brixton, where a piece of Joburg’s history is being carefully refreshed, just in time for many more summers to come.

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