A Canberra Aquatic Centre concept in Commonwealth Park. Image: NCA.
The ACT Government wants public input into the proposed Canberra Aquatic Centre to be built in Commonwealth Park next to Commonwealth Avenue and the new light rail line.
It has opened seven weeks of consultation, during which Canberrans can complete a survey, visit pop-up information stalls, and share features of other pools they like, in Australia or overseas.
The $137.8 million project is being jointly funded by the Territory and the Commonwealth, with construction expected to start in this ACT parliamentary term after the finalisation of design and approval processes.
According to the YourSay page, the project will deliver a 50-metre lap pool and outdoor splash-play areas, with flexibility to support a wide range of aquatic sports and activities, but a diving pool and tower are not being contemplated.
It will include functional changerooms and family-friendly amenities, and be available for use all year round, with both indoor and all-weather features to accommodate Canberra’s climate.
There will be a focus on sustainability, incorporating passive design strategies, energy-efficient systems and water-sensitive technologies.
The site has been selected for convenience to public transport, with a new light rail station to be built opposite in the next two years.
The community’s feedback will inform the design and functionality of the new aquatic centre, such as equipment and amenities.
Earlier this year, the National Capital Authority sought public feedback on its Commonwealth Park Concept Vision 2025, which included a new aquatic facility proposed for the same location.
The Commonwealth Park facility will replace the aging Civic pool, which will make way for the proposed National Convention and Entertainment Precinct.
A year ago, ACT Labor promised the new aquatic centre during the election campaign after securing land in Commonwealth Park from the Albanese Government. However, at the time, the proposed site had not been settled on.
ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr said the government aimed to deliver modern, inclusive and sustainable aquatic and recreation facilities for all Canberrans to enjoy.
He said the new centre would be designed to welcome as wide a range of users as possible within the project budget.
“We are asking Canberrans to share their ideas on what facilities and features are most important – your feedback will help shape this new facility,” Mr Barr.
ACT Senator Katy Gallagher said the proposal would deliver a new aquatic centre in a central location, but also free up land to unlock the construction of the new National Convention Centre precinct.
“We want this aquatic centre to be something that Canberra families, kids and keen swimmers can all enjoy for decades to come,” she said.
“We want to make sure the aquatic centre meets the Canberra community’s expectations, so I’d encourage anyone with an interest in this project to get online and have their say.”
To learn more and provide feedback online, visit the YourSay Conversations until 14 November.
Community pop-up locations and times are:
- Wednesday, 8 October, 11 am to 2 pm, Canberra Olympic Pool, 36 Constitution Avenue, Canberra
- Thursday, 9 October, 2 pm to 5 pm, Stromlo Leisure Centre, Uriarra Road and Dave McInnes Road, Stromlo
- Wednesday, 29 October, 11 am to 2 pm, Stromlo Leisure Centre
- Saturday, 1 November, 9 am to 2 pm, Lake Burley Griffin, Queen Elizabeth Terrace, next to The Jetty
- Saturday, 8 November, 10 am to 1 pm, Canberra Olympic Pool.
