Designs revealed for new Botany Aquatic Centre

Bayside Council in Sydney’s south has submitted a development application for a $68 million rebuilding of its Botany Aquatic Centre.

Designed to replace the current facility, which dates back to 1966, the proposal includes the demolition of the existing pools and building new indoor and outdoor swimming pools and recreation facilities.

Amenities are planned to include a new 50m outdoor lap pool, 25m indoor pool and an indoor learn to swim pool, as well as two waterslides and an aquatic outdoor play area. It will also feature a gymnasium, shade structures, change rooms, multi-function rooms and amenities including a kiosk, meeting rooms, managers office, seating, foyer, reception, administration rooms, along with an ancillary building.

Bayside Council's plans note “the objective of the proposal is to deliver an improved aquatic and recreational centre to support the Bayside community and surrounds.

“The proposal seeks to establish a contemporary, high amenity design which caters to the growing population within Bayside Local Government Area.

“The facility will encourage physical activity, support social connection and assist in diversifying the recreational facility offering in Bayside.”

“The proposal has been designed to ensure it will not dominate the streetscape or minimise the heritage significance of Booralee Park, overall, the built form will cause negligible visual impacts to surrounding sites."

The proposed operating hours are 5.30am to 10pm seven days and 8am to 6pm on public holidays while the waterslides are proposed to operate Monday to Friday 3pm to 7pm and Saturdays, Sundays and school holidays 10am to 7pm.

Parking will be provided for 166 cars in the existing space and a bus drop off will be retained.

Staff members will include an aquatic centre manager, duty managers, lifeguards, gym and fitness supervisors and trainers, aquatic program supervisor, learn to swim instructors and customer service supervisors.

Council documents add "the site may be used infrequently for special events such as movie nights, competition meets and extended aquatic programs.

“The proposal will provide a recreational facility which supports and encourages a healthy, connected community.

“The proposal will provide a facility that is open to the public which provides an inclusive place for people of all ages and abilities.”

The existing facility three outdoor swimming pools and a grandstand.

The proposal will be determined by the Sydney Eastern City Planning Panel.

Images: Concept design for the new Botany Aquatic Centre (top and middle) and the current centre, which dates back to 1966 (middle). Credit: Bayside Council.