A well-managed outdoor swimming pool project typically takes 4 to 6 months from the start of construction to handover, assuming groundworks, structural construction, fitting out and finishing all proceed as planned. However, the total time from initial enquiry to swimming is usually 8 to 12 months or more, once the consultation, design, specification, procurement and pre-construction planning phases are included.

The consultation, design and specification phase typically takes 2 to 4 months. This includes the initial meeting, the site visit, the development of the pool design and specification, the selection of finishes and equipment, and the finalisation of the project budget and programme. Allowing adequate time for this phase is important — decisions made at this stage affect everything that follows.

Where planning permission is required, this will add 8 to 13 weeks to the pre-construction phase — and potentially longer if the application is complex or requires amendment. We advise on planning requirements at the outset and can coordinate the application where needed.

Specialist pool equipment, coping stone, tiling and other materials need to be ordered ahead of the construction start. A properly managed procurement phase of 4 to 8 weeks before construction begins ensures that the programme is not disrupted by material lead times once work is underway.

The construction phase for a standard outdoor concrete pool — excavation through to water in the pool — typically takes 12 to 20 weeks. This varies depending on the complexity of the project, the groundworks conditions, the access to the site, and the extent of the surrounding works. Indoor pool construction is typically longer due to the additional structural and environmental systems involved.

The single most important thing a homeowner can do to ensure their pool is ready when they want it is to start the process early. If you want to be swimming in summer, we recommend initiating conversations in the autumn or winter of the preceding year. We are happy to discuss your requirements and help you understand the realistic timeline for your specific project.