Hampstead Heath’s Mixed Pond may soon become accessible to swimmers throughout the entire year, as the City of London Corporation evaluates the possibility of extending its operating season in light of the growing interest in open water swimming.

The Mixed Pond is one of three designated bathing ponds on the Heath, alongside the Kenwood Ladies’ Pond and the Highgate Men’s Pond.

As part of the review, the corporation is also exploring options to enhance changing room amenities and potentially add saunas at the various ponds.

Alderman Gregory Jones KC, who chairs the City of London Corporation’s Hampstead Heath, Highgate Wood and Queen’s Park Committee, indicated that the review was initiated due to the “growing enthusiasm for open water swimming.”

While the Ladies’ and Men’s ponds remain open year-round, the Mixed Pond is currently only available to the public between April and October.

Jones noted that during the winter months, access to the pond is limited to members of the Hampstead Heath Winter Swimming Club, as per a long-established agreement.

The review aims to align the Mixed Pond’s accessibility with that of the Parliament Hill Lido, Kenwood Ladies’ Pond, and Highgate Men’s Pond.

A preliminary five-year business plan formulated by the corporation suggests several modifications to the swimming facilities, as reported by the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

These adjustments include the installation of temperature sensors that users can monitor online, along with water aeration systems.

The proposal is set to be discussed at the Hampstead Heath Consultative Committee next week, with a decision anticipated at a subsequent committee meeting in early February.