The former calcium carbonate factory along the Xin'an River is now a flourishing extreme sports center. [Photo/Tide News]

A new diving and extreme sports facility boasting East China's deepest diving pool opened recently along the Xin'an River in Jiande city, administered by Hangzhou in western Zhejiang province.

Converted from a former calcium carbonate factory, the site is a flagship project in Jiande's push to become a leading extreme sports hub.

The pool, 42 meters deep and covering about 500 square meters, features six training levels at 1.4 meters to 42 meters deep for activities ranging from snorkeling and mermaid diving to free diving, scuba diving and technical diving.

Mermaid diving, also known as mermaiding, is an enchanting blend of freediving, performance art and fantasy cosplay. Participants wear a mermaid tail — often made of fabric or silicone — and swim using graceful, dolphin-like movements.

The overall aim is for the attraction to draw both professionals and beginners, who'll be under the guidance of certified coaches.

Beyond diving, the complex includes a deep-water surf hall, a riverside pump track and multiple facilities for sports like surfing, skateboarding, mountain biking and climbing.

The project's leaders said they've noticed the rapid rise of diving's popularity on social platforms, while Jiande's natural resources —  especially the clear cool water of the Xin'an River — and the growing market make it an ideal location.

Local officials said Jiande has already developed over 40 outdoor sports projects and it plans to expand into becoming an international hub for extreme sports and major events.

A mermaid diver practices in Jiande's new 42-meter-deep pool, East China's deepest. [Photo/Tide News]