The North Sydney 50m Olympic Pool was constructed in 1935 and since its construction has undergone numerous minor upgrades and refurbishments. This iconic Pool complex and its associated facilities is supported by aging infrastructure which is in need of a significant upgrade to preserve the existing heritage fabric for the long term as well as to meet modern user requirements.
Technical investigations revealed that the existing 50m pool is so severely corroded and compromised that it should be replaced as soon as possible.
North Sydney Council engaged BHA to investigate options for the future masterplan of the Centre which includes a range of upgrades to improve the facility. BHA developed 6 options ranging from a minor upgrade of the facilities to extensive new facilities including diving platforms, waterslide and grassed sun deck. Some updates include:
- Construction of a new Children’s waterplay / splash deck area
- Construction / major improvement of new change rooms
- Upgrade and roofing of the grandstand
- Upgrade and possible relocation of the restaurant
- Upgrade / enlarge / relocate the gym / health club facility
- General upgrade / improvement of the energy and aquatics systems
- Re-planning the pedestrian access / movement systems throughout the facility.
- New proposals for underground parking
- New proposals for indoor pools
- New proposal for a function centre and a new roof top Urban Park overlooking the Harbour Bridge and Opera House beyond.
public consultation
BHA have worked with Council to undertake extensive consultation with the local community through stakeholder workshops and public consultation meetings.
design innovation
The BHA Team developed 6 options for the Masterplan Development ranging from Option 1 which was based on a strong heritage response with minimal change to the Heritage built fabric to option 6 which included a new City Aquatic Centre, water slides and new rooftop Urban Park.
Each option was canvassed with Public and Community Stakeholders through an extensive Community Consultation program.
building design and ESD
All possible 6 design options have included adding new building services incorporating the use of efficient aquatic systems, lighting, water saving filtration systems and energy efficient pool heating systems.
bha role
Brewster Hjorth were engaged as Architect and Principal Design Consultant for the Masterplan and Design
project overview
client
North Sydney Council
size
50m + 25m pool
cost
$72.5m final concept
completed
Masterplan completed
team
Project Director
Project Architect
Ian Brewster
Luigi Staiano
