The new aquatic centre in North Adelaide, which has a budget of $135 million and is set to open its doors early next year, is nearing its final stages of construction. Operated by YMCA Aquatic, the centre aims to create a modern swimming environment that maintains harmony with the adjacent parklands.
One of the primary goals for YMCA Aquatic is to ensure the financial sustainability of the facility, addressing the financial challenges that plagued the previous centre, which operated at a loss. Spokesperson Adam Luscombe emphasised the importance of community involvement, stating, “We want the community to feel a part of this venue. If we price things too high, they won’t engage, so we aim to strike a balance.”
The state-of-the-art facility will feature a ten-lane indoor pool that caters to both competitive swimmers and recreational users. Additionally, an outdoor pool, a long-awaited addition since the closure of its predecessor in the 1980s, is also being developed. This pool will include community barbecue areas, enhancing the overall experience for visitors.
Furthermore, the centre is projected to create around 300 jobs, with a strong preference for hiring former staff from the old North Adelaide pool, thus supporting the local workforce.
As construction progresses, the community eagerly anticipates the opening of this recreational facility, which promises to provide a vibrant hub for both swimming aficionados and families.