Images: City of Norwood Payneham & St Peters
The transformation of Payneham Memorial Swimming Centre is well underway, with the landmark redevelopment continuing to tick off major milestones as it approaches completion in late 2026.
The project, which is estimated to cost $60 million, is turning the community facility into a state-of-the-art aquatic and leisure precinct designed to cater for swimmers, families, and elite athletes, all while improving accessibility and inclusivity across the site.
Once the project is finished, the upgraded centre will feature an impressive suite of facilities, including a 10-lane 50-metre outdoor pool, an 8-lane 25-metre indoor pool, and an 11 by 20-metre indoor learn-to-swim pool. A 14-metre waterslide tower, zero-depth water play zone, shaded picnic areas, BBQ facilities, and multipurpose community spaces will also form part of the new precinct.
Accessibility is a key focus of the design, with all pools offering ramp or lift access and aquatic wheelchairs available for public use, making sure the venue is welcoming for all visitors.
Recent updates on construction works, delivered by Badge Constructions, show the indoor 25-metre and 20-metre pools have been filled with water, the pool hall fit-out is nearing completion, and key structural works, including the 50-metre pool shade structure and waterslide foundations, have been completed or are underway.
Next steps include filling the outdoor 50-metre pool, installing the waterslide tower and waterplay shade structures, and progressing landscaping works that will help bring the precinct’s community spaces to life.
Earlier stages of the project saw the demolition of former infrastructure, upgrades to essential services, large-scale earthworks, and early construction of the indoor pools and structural framing, laying the foundation for what is now a rapidly taking shape modern facility.
The redevelopment is also delivering an increase in local employment, generating around 100 jobs during construction and an estimated 40 ongoing roles once the centre opens, including lifeguards and facility staff.
Supported by a $5.6 million contribution from the State Government through the Local Government Infrastructure Partnership Program, the project reflects a significant investment in community recreation and wellbeing in the eastern suburbs.
Once opened, the new Payneham Memorial Swimming Centre is expected to become one of Adelaide’s top aquatic destinations with a mix of fitness, recreation, and family-friendly leisure in a contemporary, inclusive setting designed for the next generation of swimmers.
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