Preferred solution for 25m pool on Council agenda

Published on 16 April 2026

A recommendation to progress a tender process for a new enclosure (or alternative solution) for the 25m pool at Singleton Gym + Swim will be presented to Council’s ordinary meeting on Tuesday 21 April.

After securing additional funding for the project and ruling out any possibility of permanent closure of the pool at Council’s March meeting, Council confirms demolition of the existing structure has been awarded with a target completion in June 2026.

A report prepared for Council’s April meeting proposes the next steps in the process, with a preferred solution to ensure “the most balanced and sustainable long-term solution, delivering strong community outcomes while maintaining operational viability and financial responsibility”.

The proposed project scope for the tender would follow a Design and Construct model, open to solutions including a like-for-like approved design, an alternative enclosure that meets minimal functional requirements, or an upgrade to the existing pool heating system to support permanent outdoor use. 

The report recommends that Council:

1. Note a contract has been awarded for the demolition of the 25m pool existing dome structure with a target completion in June 2026.

2. Note the evaluation process of potential solutions undertaken for the 25m pool based on criteria including community impact, capital cost, speed of solution, operational costs, visitation and revenue.

3. Note the preferred concept recommended for the 25m pool is to replace the demolished existing dome with a new enclosure.

4. Approve the commencement of procurement activities for the design and construction of a new 25m pool enclosure (either as per the current approved design or an alternative design) or an outdoor heated pool solution.

5. Note that following the outcome of the procurement process, a tender evaluation report will be returned to Council for final determination.

6. Note that staff will investigate temporary operation of the existing 25m pool heating without an enclosure, to determine if this is feasible.

7. If temporary operation of the existing 25m pool heating is deemed feasible:

a. Delegate to the General Manager approval to proceed with necessary temporary works.

b. Receive a status report including options, expected performance, capital and operational cost, methodology and risk.

8. Note the requirement for a heated pool facility (either indoor or outdoor) to be in service for the community by 1 April 2027.

9. Endorse a separate investigation to explore the feasibility of future heating of the outdoor 50m pool.

Find the full report on page 64 of the Council meeting agenda for 21 April 2026.

View the report

Keep up to date