Concept designs for Stage 1 of the Newcastle Ocean Baths upgrade will soon get underway, after Newcastle council named engineering company GHD the principal design consultant for the project.
The Baths upgrade will begin with the restoration of the pool and its promenades, while consultation and assessments continue for the upper concourse and pavilion.
Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes says GHD Group is set to complete final site investigations before developing initial designs for the pools and promenade for community feedback.
“Engagement with the Newcastle Ocean Baths Community Reference Group and broader public is an important aspect of revitalising this iconic community asset,” Cr Nelmes said.
Once the firm receives feedback on the initial concepts, it will enter a detailed design process, which is which is expected to be completed by April 2021.
Construction works are scheduled to begin in the new financial year.
The $9.5 million sale of three City of Newcastle-owned buildings, including the Frederick Ash Building, is helping to fund the project.
Stage 2 of the project will address the renewal of the pavilions and surrounding upper level public domain space.
Newcastle council says a multi-criteria needs analysis will be undertaken on the site to guide conversations with the community and ensure the upgrade meets the needs of future generations.
“Newcastle Ocean Baths is treasured by our community, which is why we are moving ahead with the upgrades to the pools while continuing conversations with the community to ensure they have input into the improvements to the iconic pavilions,” Cr Nelmes said.
“Prioritising a refurbishment of the pools and their surrounds will allow us to improve the site’s safety and accessibility while ensuring adequate time to work with the community on a plan for the pavilion that respects the heritage and integrity of the site.”
