Delays and rising costs impact North Sydney Olympic Pool redevelopment

North Sydney Council has advised that the $63.9 million redevelopment of the North Sydney Olympic Pool now has a "practical completion date" of July next year, more than six months later than originally scheduled.

First planned to reopen in November 2022, then February 2023, then May 2023 the delays have been blamed on adverse weather, the removal of hazardous materials, supply issues and related pandemic issues.

A recent update from the Council advised works in July were further delayed due to inclement weather but that works on the facility's concrete pouring and 50 metre pool balance tank walls are now complete.    

Explaining the delays, a Council spokesperson advised "the redevelopment of the North Sydney Olympic Pool, like all construction work across metropolitan Sydney, has experienced disruption and delays due to the recent extreme weather events and the ongoing impacts of COVID-19 which has caused significant supply chain issues across the construction industry.

"Additionally, the project has been impacted by a number of latent conditions on the site that were unknown prior to the 50m pool shell being removed, and additional strengthening works for the heritage structures on the site has been required.

"North Sydney Council is making every effort to work with the builder to minimise these impacts on the cost of the project and the final completion date."

The redevelopment of the pool has already been the subject of cost blowouts, with its budget rising from an initial projection of $28 million to $58 million and now to $63.9 million, with controversy related to a $10 million Federal Government contribution from a scheme for female change rooms and community swimming pools in rural and regional areas.

The Council advise that the "new state of the art aquatic and fitness centre will significantly improve and expand the aquatic and recreational facilities" available, with features including:

• Existing 50m and 25m pools will be upgraded and art deco features will be maintained, including the harbourside wall, sundeck and heritage stair tower.

• Exciting kids waterplay area with a splash pad and water spray feature.

• New warm water pool suitable for gentle exercise and other programs.

• Expanded gym with harbour views, separate spin and exercise rooms.

• Larger creche with private indoor and outdoor spaces.

• New 970 person grandstand with permanent shade for sun-safe swimming carnivals.

• Ramp access to pools and accessible change rooms

Image: The redevelopment of North Sydney Olympic Pool is now scheduled to be completed in July 2023. Credit: North Sydney Council.