Fast forward to the present day and the place is as thriving as many of the people within it.

We believe this development has not simply provided a set of changing areas and a cafe but a safe space for social interaction and activities. That, in turn, is helping address loneliness, encouraging health and wellbeing activities and creating a sense of belonging.

We are excited about developing future initiatives and building on the foundational work undertaken since the project began in 2018.

We are grateful for every visit, all the generous support and the regular incoming flow of ideas.

The Bathing Pools by DLM Architects for Vive La Vallette LBG won a RIBA South East Award.

Adrian Sarchet swam for 24hrs with community members to help raise funds for the regeneration project. Since opening in June 2022, the community and visitors to the island have embraced the new facilities, and usage of the area has increased dramatically, breathing new life into La Vallette.

The new cafe and community facilities opened.

Construction began at La Vallette.

The States of Guernsey restored the pool surfaces and granted Vive La Vallette a license to build an assisted access ramp to the water.

A New Dawn – The Bathing Pools – The Heart of La Vallette

The group quickly gained support from many others who were excited about the immense potential to make a difference to the island and the people that live in and visit Guernsey.

Vive La Vallette was formed and selected by the States of Guernsey to regenerate the facilities serving the Ladies’ and Children’s Pools. DLM Architects were appointed, and planning permission was granted.

In February, the Gents’ Pool reopened.

In June, the Horseshoe landing reopened.

In September, the La Vallette Legacy Team launched a restoration project including the pools.

In February, storm damage closed the Gents’ Pool and Horseshoe landing.

High diving boards were removed at Ladies’ Pool. Volunteers continued to clear out stones and patch up leaks.

The States Recreation Committee recommended abandoning the Gent’s and Horseshoe bathing places due to high maintenance costs and potential granite reclamation for other projects. The proposal was defeated, largely thanks to swimmer and States Member Bill Green.

Beau Sejour Leisure Centre indoor pool opened, becoming the island’s first public indoor pool. The Guernsey Swimming Club relocated there.

Ladies’ Pool extended to 55 yards.

The German occupiers initially paid the small admission fees to the Ladies’ Pool, but this soon lapsed. In Autumn 1940, the pool was accessible, and the Commandant and his staff attended a gala with nearly 500 spectators. Events included mixed relays, distance plunging, a bat and spoon race, and fancy dress.

High diving boards from near the start of La Vallette were moved to Ladies’ Pool by the Guernsey Swimming Club, replacing earlier versions. Note that diving had also occurred in the harbour from cranes!

Children’s Tidal Pool added to Ladies’ Pool.

Gent’s Tidal Pool completed.

Ladies’ Tidal Pool completed.

The Horseshoe bathing place completed.

Permission granted to create a promenade to Clarence Battery using infill from the harbour. Work funded by public subscription, parish, and Royal Court.

Plans proposed to build new bathing places to replace those lost to the expansion of St Peter Port Harbour.