The Kings Cross Pond Club, which was part of London’s swimming scene at the beginning of 2015 and captivated the hearts of swimmers while growing into one of London’s funniest tourist attractions, has come closing.
Argent, The real estate developer who has the land upon which the pond is situated, is deciding to shut down the pond. While it was meant to be temporary and has only been granted planning permission for two years, pond owners are shocked.
In its brief existence, the pond has risen in popularity and has served more than 10,000 swimmers since it opened in May. It helps the local population as an alternative and unique leisure facility that draws interested tourists. Additionally, it is popular with the outdoor and “wild” swimmers, who travel from all over to swim in a natural fresh-water pool in a developed region.
A campaign of a wide range of pond owners has begun to persuade Argent and the local authorities in Camden to reconsider closing the pond.
Imogen is the person who began an appeal for the preservation of the lake and resided at Kings Cross in the 1980s until she moved into East Anglia; she says: “Swimming in the pond has drawn me back to Kings Cross.” Dr. Chris is a professor, swimmer, and TV host interested in studying how swimming in cold waters improves mental and physical well-being. Dr Chris says: “The benefits of the pond are so wide-ranging in terms of the health of both the users and the area, that to dismantle it would be a tragedy.”
Ben is a new professional member of the residents and tenants’ association. He lives near the pond, so walking home after the still-wet water is possible. In highlighting the community-building aspects of the lake, Ben claims initiatives like this lake “create a sense of place and ensure that, more often than not, residents have close friends across the development and know their neighbours.” Also, Barbara, an attorney, has been in the pond over 100 times since the pond was opened.
For all of us who participate in keeping the pond open for everyone who swims there, the pond has outperformed our expectations. It was initially an installation of living art on how man and nature can live together. It has different meanings to different people. However, it is now far more than just art. It’s also an attraction for tourists; a refuge; a means to cope with the stresses of life and a fortune of experiencing nature nearby, and a way to combat the dull and grey and slowing of the hectic life in the city. It is an asset to the community, a brief break during winter, a means to meet new people, and a reason to stay within the cities.
The pond has grown to symbolize a wild and serene oasis that proudly holds the ever-growing urban sprawl at the bay. We and several thousands of others do not want it to be closed.
