Noarlunga Aquatic Centre closed for up to year for repairs, upgrades under $11m council plan

One of the most popular pools in Adelaide’s south would be closed for up to 12 months if plans for $11m in repairs and upgrades are approved.

A popular aquatic centre in Adelaide’s south would be closed for up to a year for upgrades to the building, roof and the pool filtration plant – while entry fee increases have not been ruled out.

Onkaparinga Council is planning a $10.8m refurbishment of the Noarlunga Aquatic Centre after taking over management in 2021.

It said it had already put in unisex and accessible changerooms, a modernised gym and other improvements.

Now it’s planning upgrades to the roof, ceiling and pool and a modernised filtration and disinfection plant.

Noarlunga Aquatic Centre would be closed for up to a year for upgrades if they are approved by Onkaparinga Council.

It said the roof, which is more than 30 years old, needed replacing, while support columns need maintenance.

Meanwhile, the lagoon pool would be separated from the main pool to better control temperatures, while a ramp would be added.

A 99kW solar power system would be installed, along with a new pool liner or tiles to eliminate water loss. A modern water filtration system would mean fewer chemicals and less energy used.

Council said “no decision” had been made on changes to fees or costs but did not rule them out.

A spokesperson said membership fees and pool entry costs wouldn’t be used to fund the upgrades.

“Fees and charges are considered as part of our annual budget, and the council will always need to balance operating costs with cost-of-living pressures on the community,” they said.

All the works mean the pool could be close for up to 12 months.

“We understand a shutdown would inconvenience many of our regular pool users, but this investment will lead to a more modern facility with better bather comfort, requiring fewer chemicals,” Onkaparinga CEO Phu Nguyen said.

“The current facility has served us well for over 30 years, but now is the time for this important renewal work.”

The council said it would provide plenty of notice and aim to minimise disruption – and investigate nearby swimming facilities.

Detailed designs are expected next month, while work would start mid next year, if approved.