A purpose-built children’s swimming centre will open in Newtownabbey this autumn, supported by an investment exceeding £1 million and the creation of up to 50 jobs. The facility will occupy the former DW Sports Fitness unit at Longwood Retail Park on the Shore Road.

Construction is due to start next month. The pool will be heated to 31 degrees Celsius, and the venue will include an air-conditioned viewing gallery, spacious changing areas and free parking.

Lessons will run seven days a week for children aged three to 11 of all abilities, as well as sessions for babies and toddlers from birth to three years old.

The project is backed by four-time Olympic medallist Becky Adlington and fellow Olympian Steve Parry. They founded the Swim! brand after identifying a shortage of high-quality children’s swimming lessons across the UK. This will be the company’s first dedicated centre in Northern Ireland and its 17th purpose-built venue overall.

Swim! also delivers lessons in more than 30 schools, colleges and community venues throughout the UK. The company said the Newtownabbey site would provide learn-to-swim opportunities for families across the wider Antrim area, helping children develop confidence in the water and life-saving skills.

The announcement comes as local swimmers Daniel Wiffen, Danielle Hill and Conor Ferguson prepare to represent Team NI at the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games, alongside Olympic champion Jack McMillan, boosting the profile of the sport in the region.

Parents can pre-register online to access a limited opening offer of a first month of lessons for £10.