The Flemish government has approved a new subsidy scheme to support initiatives for developing open-water swimming locations, with €1.5 million earmarked between 2025 and 2027, announced Sports Minister Annick De Ridder (N-VA) on Saturday.
In recent years, the number of official open-water swimming locations in Flanders increased from 88 in 2020 to 101 in 2024. However, this growth was limited by strict environmental regulations and a lack of clear guidance for local authorities. Last year, conditions were relaxed in Flemish environmental laws, and the concept of "free swimming zones" was introduced. Additionally, the Department of Care’s open-water swimming guidelines offer a clear step-by-step plan for prospective developers.
The new subsidy scheme now adds financial support, according to Minister De Ridder. Both preparatory studies and the establishment of the swimming site itself can receive up to 30% subsidy. Temporary pop-up locations can receive a maximum of €20,000, while permanent sites can receive up to €100,000. Preliminary studies are eligible for up to €5,000.
“The demand for accessible and safe places to swim in open water is growing every year, especially during increasingly warmer summers,” stated De Ridder in a press release. “With this support, we aim to encourage local authorities and organisations to provide additional swimming facilities, tailored to their environment and in line with safety and hygiene standards.”
The calls for proposals will be managed by Sport Vlaanderen. The first application period runs until the end of December 2025, or until the annual budget is exhausted.
