The redevelopment of the North Sydney Pool has been beset by council infighting, claims of pork-barrelling, heritage concerns and criticism from health organisations. Now, after a series of setbacks and a budget explosion, the opening date is pushed back to 2025 at the earliest.
Ocean pools have a long history in Australia dating back to the 1800s, when convicts carved, and sometimes dynamited, swimming holes into some of NSW’s most popular surf beaches. The pools were a welcome respite from the harsh surf and a safe haven for swimmers who could enjoy the ocean’s cooling waters in safety.
As the demand for ocean pools grew, they were supplemented by formally organised surf lifesaving clubs, which patrolled during daylight hours to protect beachgoers from sharks and rips. This was a significant improvement on the unsupervised and inefficient nature of the previous volunteer-run lifesaving services.
In recent times, however, the popularity of ocean pools has waned due to a range of factors, including pollution of many eastern beaches and growing concern about climate change. Ocean pools remain popular amongst fitness swimmers and winter swim club members, as well as photographers who want to snap that perfect sunrise shot.
Sydney’s iconic ocean pools have a long and rich history, from the convict-carved Bogey Hole in Newcastle, through to modern-day swimming facilities such as Sydney Sea Pools and the Royal National Park Ocean Pools. The city’s iconic swimming spots have also played a vital role in the promotion of healthy lifestyles and the wellbeing of the community.
Sidney’s new, state-of-the-art swimming centre will be a one-of-a-kind facility designed with the community in mind. WTI worked closely with the Mayor’s Swimming Pool Committee throughout the design process to ensure that the facility is responsive to the needs and wants of the community. This was accomplished by regular meetings and consultations with the community to collect user input and develop a design that would exceed expectations.
The city’s new swimming complex includes a state-of-the-art waterpark with a lazy river, slides, and water play areas for all ages. It’s also a beautiful facility with a stunning waterfront view.
When choosing a pool builder, it’s important to find out what kind of warranty they offer and whether or not they are licensed. They should also be insured, and their work must comply with NSW pool laws. In addition, they should be able to provide you with regular inspections and compliance testing.
Lastly, you should consider the cost of building a swimming pool. While fiberglass is generally considered to be the least expensive option, it can be more expensive than vinyl if you require a custom shape or size. Moreover, some councils have preservation orders that prohibit the removal of trees, so it’s essential to check with your local government before you start construction. In addition to this, you should make sure that your pool is covered by home building compensation insurance in case of damage during the construction phase.