Surf Coast reveals final design for long-awaited aquatic centre

Surf Coast Shire Council have endorsed detailed designs for its highly anticipated, but controversial aquatic centre. SEE THE NEW PICS.

Surf Coast Shire Council have endorsed detailed designs for its long-awaited aquatic centre. Pictured, an artist’s rendition of the proposed facility.

Plans for a $46m aquatic centre at Torquay have been given the green light, marking the final hurdle before tenders can be called for the project.

At a special meeting on Tuesday, Surf Coast Shire Council endorsed detailed designs for the centre, which will include a 25m indoor pool, a smaller pool, gym, allied health suites and program spaces.

The project will receive $20m in funding from the federal government and $13m from the state government.

An artist's depiction of Surf Coast Aquatic and Health Centre. Picture supplied.

Council will contribute up to $9.32m to the project, subject to further external funding.

The move sets in stone the look and makeup of the centre, which has been a source of debate.

Shire mayor Liz Pattison said the council expected to receive tenders by the end of the year, and award a contract by April.

An artist's depiction of Surf Coast Aquatic and Health Centre. Picture supplied.

“We are aiming for completion early in 2026, bringing our community and visitors a health and wellbeing asset for all – from learn-to-swimmers to older adults, people with disability, families, lap swimmers and everyone in-between,” Ms Pattison said.

Ms Pattison thanked the community and the project’s community reference group, for “insights and sustained commitment” to the project.

An artist's depiction of Surf Coast Aquatic and Health Centre. Picture supplied.

“We recognise that this facility has been a long-held ambition. Our detailed design has taken into consideration feedback and inputs gathered through the design process,” Ms Pattison said.

The makeup of the centre has changed multiple times due to rising construction costs and the state government’s plan to build a pool in nearby Armstrong Creek for the now scrapped 2026 Commonwealth Games.

According to the council, design has included focus on accessibility, and balancing environmental sustainability and energy efficiency with positive user experience and aesthetics.

Pools will have ramp access, fully accessible change spaces will be provided throughout and the centre will have toilet facilities for people with high physical needs - for which the council received a government grant.

An artist's depiction of Surf Coast Aquatic and Health Centre. Picture supplied.

To be more environmentally friendly, the proposed facility will feature all-electric power, supported by rooftop solar, lower ceiling lights in the pool hall and retain 100 per cent of rainwater retention for re-use.

An artist's depiction of Surf Coast Aquatic and Health Centre. Picture supplied.

Originally published as Surf Coast reveals final design for long-awaited aquatic centre