Newcastle Ocean Baths is one step closer to its long-awaited revitalisation, with City of Newcastle releasing the results of extensive community engagement on the project’s next phase.
Over 500 pieces of feedback were received during the consultation period, highlighting key areas of interest such as seating and shade, change room layout, and the proposed roof design.
A major component includes the revitalisation of the pavilion buildings, with a strong focus on preserving the site’s iconic Art Deco facade. Plans also feature improvements to the upper promenade and surrounding areas, ensuring the site remains a welcoming space for both locals and visitors.
“The community feedback we received included a broad range of views on the proposed design, with themes of interest including provision of seating and shade, the layout of change rooms, and calls for both changes to and support of the proposed roof design,” Executive Director City Infrastructure Clint Thomson said.
“Our team is exploring a north – south split within changerooms in the northern pavilion building following feedback from the community about the proposed east – west layout, as well as ways to incorporate natural lighting and ventilation through the roof space of the change rooms.”
Meanwhile, a routine inspection and deep clean of the Newcastle Ocean Baths is scheduled for February 24, requiring a temporary closure of up to a week. The clean-up will involve draining the pool, removing accumulated sand, and assessing the pool floor and walls to maintain water quality. During this period, swimmers are encouraged to visit Merewether Ocean Baths or other nearby swimming facilities.
You can read the full Engagement Report by heading to newcastle.nsw.gov.au/yoursay.
