North Sydney Council seeking $25m to transform Olympic Pool

North Sydney Council is asking for a $25 million pre-election funding pledge to revamp the Olympic Pool.

Socceroos team recovery session at North Sydney Olympic Pool 27th May, Sydney Australia. Pic : George Salpigtidis

North Sydney Council is asking for a $25 million pre-election funding pledge to revamp the Olympic Pool.

The council plans to write to Premier Mike Baird and Opposition Leader Luke Foley in a bid to secure the cash commitment before the state election.

The famous pool in Milsons Point was built in the 1930s and is in need of restoration to bring it up to scratch. The issue was raised at Monday night’s council meeting and was supported by the majority of the councillors.

Cr Jeff Morris described what they were doing as “pork barrelling”.

“In this political environment, it would be exceptionally wise for us to do this,” Cr Stephen Barbour said.

The pool is popular with the local community. Photo: Braden Fastier

However, Mayor Jilly Gibson told the councillors she was feeling “rather opposed” to the move.

“I won’t hold my breath waiting for the money to arrive,” she said.

The council has been working on a restoration plan for the pool for several months and has already asked the community for feedback.

North Sydney Mayor Jilly Gibson says she won’t be holding her breath waiting for state govenrment money for the pool.

Director of engineering Duncan Mitchell said the 50m pool was nearing the end of its life and its shell needed to be replaced.

But the cost of the works could be more than the sum being requested from the next state leader. “At this stage it could be greater than $25 million – $25 million is a start,” Mr Mitchell said.

There are three options for restoration works on the table with varying price tags but the exact costs have not been revealed yet.

The options include a gym, a hydrotherapy pool, diving facilities, grandstand, event space, children’s play area and shade structure. The council want to expand the pool’s appeal so that it’s not just a “lap pool” anymore.

The Olympic Pool is heritage-listed on the state registrar and offers a spectacular view of the Harbour Bridge.

It hosted two Empire Games and almost 100 world records in swimming and diving have been set there.

Letters will also be sent to Prime Minister Tony Abbott and North Shore MP and Health Minister Jillian Skinner.