Concerns are mounting about the future of outdoor public pools in Canberra as the city grapples with rising demand from a growing population projected to reach approximately 800,000 by 2065. Local advocates argue that the ACT government should take control of these facilities rather than allowing developers to dictate their fate.
With the current trend of redevelopment, Canberra risks losing vital outdoor swimming facilities. According to official projections, the population will comprise about 430,000 residents in the north and 370,000 in the south. Presently, only one outdoor pool is guaranteed for each side of the city, raising alarms among community advocates.
The historic Manuka pool, while cherished, cannot adequately support the needs of the southside’s population. On the northside, the Dickson aquatic centre is the only confirmed outdoor swimming option. The potential closure of other pools, such as the beloved Phillip swimming pool, highlights an urgent need for a more sustainable aquatics strategy.
Recent developments indicate that the Phillip outdoor 50-metre pool remains operational but faces an uncertain future. Plans are in motion for a 25-metre indoor pool and additional smaller pools as part of a residential redevelopment by Geocon. Critics argue that this shift prioritises profit over public need, reducing quality recreational spaces to a series of less appealing facilities.
The Big Splash water park at Macquarie, once a vibrant community hub, now stands empty and vandalised. The lessee aims to redevelop the site for commercial purposes, further diminishing options for outdoor swimming. Additionally, the ACT government has announced plans to demolish existing pools, including the Civic indoor and outdoor pools, to make way for a new entertainment precinct.
In light of these changes, the ACT government has proposed a new aquatic centre at Commonwealth Park, which is expected to feature a 50-metre lap pool. Yet, apprehensions linger regarding whether this facility will meet community needs. The existing Civic pool, with its diving boards and green shaded areas, offers a unique experience that may not be replicated in future designs.
Community members have called for a comprehensive aquatics strategy to address the growing population’s needs. At a recent public meeting, Sarah Ransom from the Save Phillip Pool Community emphasized the inadequacy of the current approach. She stated, “The old way of sprinkling private and public facilities around Canberra and hoping for the best just isn’t going to cut it anymore.”
The current landscape suggests that developers are prioritizing financial gain over community welfare. As facilities are bought or redeveloped, residents fear that quality public spaces will be sacrificed. The ACT government’s hands-off approach has led to a perception of negligence regarding existing facilities, with calls for stricter oversight of lessees who fail to adhere to maintenance standards.
As Canberra experiences warmer temperatures, the absence of accessible outdoor pools raises significant concerns. Many residents do not have private pools, and the community’s need for public recreational spaces is pressing. Advocates argue that the ACT government should assume responsibility for managing outdoor public pools, ensuring they serve the community’s interests rather than the profit motives of developers.
The future of outdoor swimming in Canberra remains uncertain as community advocates push for a shift in management strategy. With a growing population and limited facilities, the need for action from the ACT government is more critical than ever.
