The Queensland University of Technology (QUT) has confirmed it will permanently close its 25-metre indoor swimming pool at Kelvin Grove from 1 September 2026, with the facility set to be redeveloped into a new teaching, research, and high-performance gym.
Read: QUT Unveils Plans for Kelvin Grove Campus Upgrade
The university announced the closure through its website, saying the pool will be redeveloped into a new teaching, research and high-performance gym facility designed to support student learning and industry engagement.
According to information published by QUT, the final day of operation for the Kelvin Grove pool will be 31 August. The university has also confirmed the facility will not reopen following redevelopment.
“The pool is closing to be redeveloped into a new teaching, research and high-performance gym facility,” QUT stated.
The closure forms part of broader plans for the Kelvin Grove campus, with the university saying the new facility will strengthen opportunities for real-world learning experiences, research activities and collaboration with industry partners.
While gym facilities at Kelvin Grove will remain open, swimming programs and services are expected to transition to QUT’s Gardens Point campus, which features a 50-metre indoor pool.
However, the announcement has sparked concern among regular users and nearby residents who say the loss of the pool will leave a significant gap in local aquatic facilities.
Community reaction
In the weeks since the announcement, a community petition opposing the closure has attracted hundreds of signatures, with supporters arguing the facility provides an important service for people of all ages and abilities.
Supporters of the campaign have highlighted the value of having an indoor pool in Brisbane’s inner north, particularly during winter and periods of poor weather when outdoor pools are less practical.
Reaction on local social media has reflected those concerns. In a post shared to a community Facebook group, one resident described being “devastated” by the news, calling the closure “a loss for our community” and arguing there was no viable indoor alternative nearby.
Others have pointed to the facility’s popularity, noting it is regularly used by lap swimmers, rehabilitation users and families. The closure also comes at a time when aquatic facilities in the broader area are undergoing change.
Nearby Centenary Pool is scheduled to close as part of redevelopment works associated with the planned National Aquatics Centre precinct, adding to concerns about future swimming access in Brisbane’s inner north.
QUT has provided members with information about alternative swimming options, including its Gardens Point facility as well as several council-operated pools across Brisbane.
Acknowledging the impact on existing members, the university said: “We understand this change impacts members who primarily use the Kelvin Grove pool. Swimming facilities will continue to be available at our Gardens Point campus, and our team can work with you to discuss membership options that best suit your circumstances.”
Read: QUT Eyes 2032 Role as Campuses Near Olympic Action
For many residents in Paddington, Kelvin Grove, and neighbouring suburbs, the debate is about more than a swimming pool.
Supporters of the campaign say the facility has become an important community asset that supports fitness and rehabilitation, and they hope ongoing community support may encourage further discussion before the doors close at the end of August.
Published 22-June-2026
