A historic pool in Hamilton will remain closed for an extended period after officials discovered structural deficiencies.

The Jimmy Thompson Memorial Pool, built for the 1930 British Empire Games, was designated as a site of cultural value in 2021.

During scheduled maintenance activities, city crews uncovered significant deterioration and structural deficiencies in the pool basin. Officials say the damage requires extensive repairs. A further inspection also found broader building-system concerns, including issues with humidity-control elements. The city says these problems must be addressed to protect the facility’s long-term operation and preservation.

Because of the pool’s heritage designation and cultural significance, the city launched a detailed feasibility assessment to determine the full scope of restoration work. The assessment will help shape a comprehensive rehabilitation strategy that preserves the pool’s historic character while fixing key deficiencies.

Officials expect the project to take multiple years, and community programming will remain suspended until restoration work is complete. The City of Hamilton is encouraging residents to attend drop-in and registered programs at alternate locations while the Jimmy Thompson Pool remains closed.

The facility, originally known as the Hamilton Municipal Pool, stands as the last surviving structure from the 1930 British Empire Games. In 1971, the city renamed the pool in honour of Jimmy Thompson, an Olympian who served as head coach of the Hamilton Aquatic Club for 30 years.