Parramatta stoush over as costs split for $77m pool

Two years after Parramatta’s Memorial Pool was controversially demolished to make way for the new Parramatta Stadium, the city is finally in line to get a replacement pool. However, it won’t be delivered until 2023.

The new pool plan came to life once the City of Parramatta Council and New South Wales State Government agreed to equally co-fund the project to the tune of $38.5 million each.

The winning concept design for the new aquatic and leisure centre by Andrew Burges Architects, Grimshaw Architects, and McGregor Coxall was chosen from a shortlist of four entries following a high-calibre international Design Excellence Competition.

The council says the design was informed by extensive community consultation. It features a 10-lane 50m outdoor pool; 25m indoor pool; learn-to-swim facilities; café; fitness centre and parking facilities.

Unique features include sensitive integration with the site’s parkland surrounds, a generous use of space and light, as well as single-level accessible entry and pathways. The design also takes into account the heritage, topography and other constraints of the Mays Hill Precinct, Parramatta Park site.

“Congratulations to the consortium on their successful submission. I’m excited to see this project progressing and I look forward to working to ensure this first-class facility is delivered for the Parramatta community as soon as possible,” says Parramatta mayor Andrew Wilson.

“I’d also like to thank Mr Sidoti and the State Government for their valuable contribution to this significant project – an aquatic centre that meets the current and future needs of our rapidly growing population.

“Parramatta deserves a pool which caters for competition, learn to swim classes, recreation and relaxation. The commitment of $38.5 million from the NSW Government will help make this happen,” says minister for sport John Sidoti.

“The NSW Government and Parramatta Council are on the same page when it comes to delivering an outstanding all-year-round aquatic facility that gives the community what they have asked for.”

Further detailed design work will now be undertaken before the development application is lodged in 2020.