Transforming Gloucestershire: The Rise of Geothermal Pool Paradise in the Countryside

Geothermal swimming facilities may soon be established in the countryside, providing individuals the chance to swim throughout the year.

The initiative, named Stroud Waters, is set to occur on Court Farm, encircled by the lush landscapes of the Cotswold Way in Gloucestershire.

The two pools will be supplied with pure, clean water that will be naturally filtered through aquatic flora and biofiltration methods, heated via a geothermal borehole.

Amy Morris, the visionary behind this “ambitious effort”, mentions that they need to gather £36,000 for a feasibility assessment before they can commence any construction work.

This assessment will uncover any possible challenges related to the design, including if the water quality aligns with UK bathing regulations, geothermal setup, and biodiversity matters.

“We require solid proof that what we envision can be reality,” stated Ms. Morris.

“Our aim is to ensure everything is in order so that when we present this to the council, they will recognize that we have considered all factors.”

Should the feasibility assessment yield positive results, the proposal will be brought before the council for a pre-application dialogue in summer 2025.

Currently, the initiative has garnered £6,000 from the local populace, in addition to £10,000 commitments from both Stroud District Council and the renewable heating business, Thermal Earth.

The land is graciously provided by local farmer Adam Knight, who has also proposed to convert an existing barn on the property into changing facilities and a sauna.

The sustainable heating system will function by drawing warm water from a geothermal source, conveying that warmth to the pool before reinjecting the cooler water back underground.

In addition, the initiative features a secondary pool that will evolve in temperature according to the changing seasons.

Ms. Morris mentions she became “hooked” on cold water swimming last year while preparing for the Winter Swimming World Championships in Slovenia.

She expresses that the activity provides numerous advantages to her mental health and physical fitness, as well as enhancing her immune system and bond with nature.

“Water is profoundly beneficial for our mind, body, and spirit, and it is truly an excellent way to bolster community resilience,” remarked Ms. Morris.

“[This initiative] is genuinely ambitious and possesses the wow factor, which is precisely why I am confident it will be a tremendous success.”

If everything proceeds smoothly, Ms. Morris hopes the pools will be operational by 2026.