Demolition commences of Newcastle’s Lambton Swimming Centre grandstand

The City of Newcastle has advised that the demolition of the Lambton Swimming Centre’s existing 60-year-old concrete grandstand is underway with the council investing in a new structure capable of hosting 800 people during school swimming carnivals.

The design for the new grandstand will retain the existing roof structure and includes much-needed storage space for operational requirements including equipment for school and sporting groups, while also including upgraded accessibility considerations.

The program of work has been timed to coincide with the upcoming closure of the pool on 28th May for the winter period to minimise impact on pool users.

City of Newcastle has invited tenders for the construction of the new concrete grandstand and hopes to appoint a tenderer for the work by the end of the month.

Chair of City of Newcastle's Infrastructure Advisory Committee Councillor Peta Winney-Baartz said replacing the grandstand reflects Council’s commitment to investing in quality upgrades to its inland pool facilities, as outlined in the draft 'Inland Pools Strategy 2043'.

Councillor Winney-Baartz added “City of Newcastle is committed to maintaining and investing in the Lambton Swimming Centre to ensure it continues to meet the expectations and evolving needs of the 185,000 community members, sporting clubs and visitors that enjoy the pool each year.

Adding that with Lambton Swimming Centre being the most popular swimming centre in the Hunter, it’s important that the site’s offerings expand to serve the community, Councillor Winney-Baartz went on to say "with a growing population, replacing the current grandstand with a structure that can accommodate up to 800 people while also catering for the needs of sporting clubs and improved accessibility will contribute to Lambton Swimming Centre's safe operation into the future while meeting the needs of its many diverse users."

A scheduled program of maintenance has commenced at Lambton Swimming Centre and includes safety upgrades, painting, and changeroom improvements, while the installation of a more efficient heating system is also underway.

Council’s draft Inland Pools Strategy 2043 outlines a plan for the management and renewal of City of Newcastle’s five swimming pools over the next 20 years. The community is invited to provide feedback on the strategy before 5pm on 12th May 2023 by visiting www.haveyoursay.newcastle.nsw.gov.au/inland-pools-strategy