North Sydney Olympic Pool redevelopment design plans
North Sydney Olympic Pool’s design for its $57.9 million redevelopment has been finalised, after North Sydney Council voted to lodge building plans. But the council’s general manager warned the ageing venue could close prematurely if they don’t get government funding.
North Sydney Olympic Pool’s design for its $57.9 million redevelopment has been finalised, after North Sydney Council voted to lodge building plans.
The design includes an updated 50m pool, an additional pool - being a “family leisure” one, and warm water play area.
The family leisure pool would be on the harbour level.
A sundeck, cafe and expanded gym would be part of a new grandstand, after engineers found the current one should not be retained due to its condition.
The venue would also have a 25m indoor pool, warm water pool, spa and sauna.
A creche is also part of the plans.
The council’s general manager Ken Gouldthorp said he hoped development plans could be filed in three months.
However he warned the ageing venue could close prematurely if government funding was not forthcoming.
Engineers have found significant spalling and corrosion in the grandstand, and fewer spectactors have been allowed access.
The 50m pool is also leaking, according to Mr Gouldthorp.
“We’re time constrained on how long we can keep the doors open,” he said.
“Unless grant funding becomes available, we will need to look at our options.
“No one wants to see North Sydney Olympic Pool close.”
The council needs about $30 million from the state and federal governments before it can start work.
Mayor Jilly Gibson said the concept plan would bring the venue into the 21st century while retaining heritage elements including
the entry stairwell, art deco wall along the harbour and hall of fame.
Mr Gouldthorp said he hoped the building plans could be lodged in three months.
The public will have more chances to have its say on the plans after the development application is lodged.
A state government-appointed planning panel would decide whether to approve the redevelopment.
The pool opened in 1936, one year after the neighbouring Luna Park.
Swimming legends including Jon Konrads, Lorraine Crapp, Shane Gould and Dawn Fraser have broken world records at the venue.
A consultant’s report in 2014 said the venue needed restoration works.
However the council was restricted from major spending while the State Government considered merging Sydney councils.
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