Lake Macquarie City Council looks to expand West Wallsend Swim Centre

Lake Macquarie City Council has highlighted that burgeoning growth in the region’s west has prompted plans for a new learn to swim pool at West Wallsend Swim Centre.

Funded by the Australian Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program, the $1.8 million project includes design and construction of a new indoor pool and power upgrades at the Edden Street site.

Lake Macquarie City Council Manager Leisure Services Brendan Callander said rapid residential growth in and around West Wallsend and Cameron Park meant the centre’s existing 25 metre pool was in greater demand than ever before.

Callander shared “It’s a really popular pool for aqua fitness, lap swimming and learn to swim classes, particularly because it’s indoors and can be used year-round.

“Having a separate learn to swim pool, similar to what we recently built at Charlestown Swim Centre, will provide a quieter and more suitable space for our youngest swimmers to build confidence in the water.”

Charlestown’s learn to swim pool comprises a 16 metre x 8 metre heated pool.

Callander said the West Wallsend expansion would provide something similar, although detailed designs were yet to be finalised and advised “we’re currently looking at site layout and how best to use the space. 

"We’ll aim to go out for tender later this year, with construction to take place in early to mid-2025.”

Lake Macquarie Mayor Kay Fraser said learning to swim was a core skill for young people in Australia adding “we are so fortunate to live in a place with stunning beaches and a beautiful lake on our doorstep.

“Learning to swim is the key to fully enjoying these gems, and the provision of more facilities to meet that end can only be a good thing.”

Callander said every effort would be made to keep the existing pool open during construction noting “there may be some short-term closures for specific activities, but these would be communicated to the public well in advance.”

Go to swim.lakemac.com.au for more information about the city’s swim centres, and lakemac.com.au to find out about upcoming projects.

Image. Learn to swim instructor Sophie Deangelis. Credit: Lake Macquarie City Council