Zemst, Boortmeerbeek, and Mechelen agree on new Hofstade swimming complex

The municipalities of Zemst, Boortmeerbeek, and Mechelen have reached a principle agreement with the Flemish government to construct a new swimming complex at the Sport Vlaanderen Hofstade site. The project is expected to be completed within five years.

The development will utilize a public-private partnership model, where a private partner will handle the design, construction, financing, maintenance, and operation of the facility for the next 30 years. The total project cost is estimated at 52 million euros, which will be financed by the private partner.

The complex is designed to serve multiple purposes: Sport Vlaanderen will focus on elite sports and collaborations with swimming, lifesaving, and triathlon federations, while local authorities aim to provide access for schools, clubs, and residents. The planned infrastructure includes a 50-meter competition pool, a 25-meter instruction pool, and a toddler pool. To ensure affordability, the partners will provide an annual operating allowance, and residents of Zemst, Boortmeerbeek, and Mechelen will receive preferential rates.