In a huge development, the eagerly awaited Adelaide Aquatic Centre has been given the green light for construction, with a slew of newly released concept images showing a glimpse into the future of aquatic leisure in the city.
The State Commission Assessment Panel (SCAP) recently granted approval for the sustainably designed aquatic centre, to be located in North Adelaide’s Park 2.
“We’re thrilled to see work starting to take shape on this transformative piece of community infrastructure which will deliver a benefit to all South Australians,” Premier Peter Malinauskas says.
“From the start, we committed to listening to existing pool users about what they wanted.
“We’re confident this stunningly designed centre will deliver a much better outcome for people, and for the Park Lands.”
The project has been characterised by its dedication to sustainability, with the centre to be powered entirely by 100 percent renewable energy sources. This commitment aligns with South Australia’s broader goal of achieving a greener and more sustainable future.
The planning application for this innovative aquatic centre was submitted to SCAP in August of this year. Its approval marks a crucial step forward for a project that has generated considerable excitement among Adelaide’s residents.
Coinciding with the planning approval is the announcement of Sarah Constructions Pty Ltd, an iconic South Australian company, as the chosen builder for the $135 million facility.
Known for its expertise in constructing community recreation facilities, Sarah Constructions Pty Ltd is expected to deliver a world-class aquatic centre that meets the highest standards.
New concept images showcasing the aquatic centre’s design have been unveiled, offering a sneak peek into its features, including an indoor 50-meter pool, a learn-to-swim pool, splash zones, an external 25-meter pool, and an outdoor play area. Interior floor plans have also been made available, providing users with insights into the facility’s layout.
The centre’s offerings promise to be diverse and extensive, featuring both indoor and outdoor pool areas, water slides, splash zones, lawned recreation spaces, gym and fitness facilities, and spa/sauna/steam rooms. Improvements to community change rooms are also part of the project.
Importantly, the construction of the aquatic centre will lead to the return of over 1000 square meters of land to Park Lands.
“This new Adelaide Aquatic Centre is going to be a gamechanger for my community. We’ll have more Park Lands, more pools, more places for family and friends to gather and for children to play,” Member for Adelaide Lucy Hood says.
“This will also spare Adelaide City Council ratepayers a cost burden of a million dollars a year to prop up a tired facility.
“As a parent of children who learn to swim at the centre, I thank the Government for working to find interim solutions to accommodate everyone while construction takes place, and I look forward to the new Adelaide Aquatic Centre being up and running.”
An agreement has been reached with the City of Adelaide for a construction license and funding agreement for the restoration of the existing aquatic centre site upon its demolition.
To ensure the construction process minimally impacts the Park Lands, the existing Aquatic Centre will temporarily close from August 2024 until the project’s anticipated completion in the summer of 2025-26. During this period, the Government has announced interim arrangements to accommodate the needs of more than 100 sporting and community groups that use the current pool. Alternative venues across Adelaide will host these services.
Learn-to-swim places will be made available at various venues from July 2024, ensuring continued access to these programs. The government will offer an additional $150 Sports Voucher to all Learn-to-Swim program participants at the existing Aquatic Centre.
They’ve also committed to enhancing several local pools across Adelaide, extending outdoor pool seasons, and improving accessibility at selected venues. These upgrades will leave a lasting legacy of improved facilities for the local community.
The greenlight for this project heralds an exciting era of aquatic leisure for Adelaideans, with anticipation building as the construction phase approaches.
“We’re looking forward to welcoming everyone to the new Adelaide Aquatic Centre in the summer of 2025-26,” Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Tom Koutsantonis says.
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