Designs for the Newcastle Ocean Baths upgrade have been finalised, and City of Newcastle is calling for tenders to complete the first stage of construction.
Stage 1 of the project addresses upgrades to the pools and lower promenade as well as key safety, accessibility and water-quality issues that were identified through community engagement and engineering advice.
The revitalisation includes a renewed boardwalk, a new pump station, and significant improvements for people with a disability or low mobility.
Ramp access and improved handrail support into the pool will be included as well as the route from a vehicle at the entrance to the facility.
The undulating rock bottom of the pool will be capped with concrete to improve safety and water quality. Sand will continue to build upon the floor by the same processes as today.
The iconic bleacher seating will also be retained with other elements around the Ocean Baths that complemented the historic features.
Chair, Hunter Regional Committee of the National Trust, Mark Metrikas, said heritage had been considered through the design process.
“I was actually delighted that the circa 1937 art deco bleachers and 1948 boardwalk are retained, and in the case of the boardwalk, improved,” Metrikas said.
“It took a bit of work to get the design right to retain these important elements and we’ve worked alongside City of Newcastle to provide that input.”
Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said the community engagement had been key to finalising the designs for Stage 1.
“The final design for Stage 1 captures what the community told us was important to them, and we’ve worked with our expert consultants to also ensure the design meets accessibility, safety and health requirements,” Cr Nelmes said.
“This is a generational investment in the Newcastle Ocean Baths, which will celebrate its 100th birthday next year, which is why City of Newcastle have meticulously worked with both the community and experts to ensure what’s delivered meets the needs of current and future users.”
City of Newcastle Acting Director of Infrastructure and Property Joanne Rigby said the project team would work with preferred tenderers to ensure overall disruption to Baths users was limited.
For more information visit the City of Newcastle website.
Information source: Media release, City of Newcastle
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