Council to launch a survey on Athlone outdoor pool and boardwalk plan

Westmeath County Council are set to launch a public consultation on plans for a new outdoor swimming pool and riverside boardwalk in Athlone, following the securing of EU Just Transition Funding for the project.

The council, working in partnership with Fáilte Ireland, is proposing the development of a new boardwalk along the east bank of the River Shannon, linking the new pedestrian bridge with Burgess Park. The plans also include a new outdoor swimming pool to be located on the River Shannon.

A multi-disciplinary design team, led by Cooney Architects Ltd, has been appointed to carry out a feasibility study and prepare preliminary designs for the project, with a view to submitting a future planning application.

The team is currently examining construction methods for both elements of the development and assessing the most suitable location for the proposed swimming pool.

As part of the next stage of the project, Westmeath County Council is inviting members of the public to have their say.

An information evening will be held at Athlone Civic Offices on Monday, January 19, 2026, from 4pm to 8pm, where details of the proposals will be on display.

An online survey will also be launched on the same date and will remain open until February 9, 2026. The survey, along with further project information, will be available on the Westmeath County Council website. Hard copies of the survey will be made available on request.

For further information or to discuss the proposals, go to https://www.westmeathcoco.ie/en/ourservices/regenerationandcapitalprojects/eujtf/athloneoutdoorpoolboardwalk/, or contact the Westmeath County Council Regeneration and Capital Projects Team by phone on 044 93 38927 or by email at Regen@westmeathcoco.ie.