Rennes to Splash into New Aqualudic Complex, Eyes Innovative Skatepark Solution – Urgent Breaking News!
Rennes, France – Get ready for a wave of excitement! The city is on the cusp of unveiling a state-of-the-art aqualudic complex in March, while simultaneously exploring a creative solution for its aging Villejean swimming pool: transforming it into a much-anticipated indoor skatepark. This double-dose of good news for Rennes residents is making waves today, and we’ve got all the details.
Aqualudic Fun on the Horizon: The New Villejean Pool
Construction on the new Villejean swimming pool is slated for completion in December, with the grand opening scheduled for March. This €26 million “aqualudic complex” promises a thrilling experience for all ages. Features include exciting water games, a dedicated 120 m² learning-to-swim area, a paddling pool for the little ones, and two exhilarating interior slides. Outside, visitors can look forward to a large aquatic playground and a rapid four-lane slide. The project represents a significant investment in the city’s recreational infrastructure.
From Tile to Thrills: The Future of the Old Villejean Pool
But what about the old Villejean swimming pool, a fixture in the city for half a century? Deconstruction costs are proving prohibitively expensive, according to Frédéric Bourcier, Rennes’ sports assistant. “We have estimated the price of its deconstruction but it is very very expensive,” he stated. Instead, the city is seriously considering a dynamic repurposing: an indoor skatepark.
This isn’t just a random idea. The Rennes association, Ride Like Share, has been actively advocating for an indoor skate facility since its founding in 2016. With 270 members, the association’s mission is to “promote skateboarding for all and associated cultures” and, crucially, “motivate the decision-makers of the City of Rennes to take into account a project to carry out a place of indoor practice.” Their efforts appear to be gaining traction.
A Long-Awaited Dream for Rennes Skaters
Jean-Jacques Lejeune, president of Ride Like Share, remains cautiously optimistic. “We have already had discussions on other places in Rennes… It could not be done. We hope that this time, in the old Villejean swimming pool it will work. In Rennes, there is a high demand.” While the investment required for the transformation is still being refined – estimates currently hover around €200,000 – the potential impact is substantial.
The need for an indoor skatepark in Rennes is clear. Local skateboarder Vincent Breathe points to the success of similar facilities in Nantes (over 30 years old) and Le Mans (almost 20 years old). “It is crazy in Rennes, despite the size of the city and the very large number of practitioners, there is still none,” he says. Existing skateparks, like those at Arsenal and Prévalaye, are consistently overcrowded, and the unpredictable Breton weather makes outdoor skating challenging for much of the year. Skateboarding, rollerblading, and BMX appeal to a wide demographic, from children as young as six to adults in their 60s.
Political Timing and a City’s Momentum
The timing of this potential project is noteworthy, coinciding with the upcoming municipal elections in March. It’s likely to become a key talking point for Nathalie Appéré’s team, demonstrating a commitment to recreational opportunities for all residents. This initiative isn’t just about skateboarding; it’s about providing a safe, accessible, and year-round space for a thriving community. The potential transformation of the old Villejean pool represents a smart, sustainable, and community-focused solution, turning a potential demolition project into a vibrant hub for action sports.
The combination of the new aqualudic complex and the potential skatepark demonstrates Rennes’ commitment to providing diverse and engaging recreational opportunities for its citizens. As discussions continue and plans solidify, Rennes is poised to become a destination for water sports enthusiasts and action sports athletes alike. Stay tuned to archyde.com for further updates on this exciting development and other breaking news from around the globe.
