Imagine this: it’s 2065, and Canberra’s population has surged to 800,000. With the city expanding, the question arises: where will residents go to cool off? If current trends continue, the answer might not be at outdoor public pools. The scenario paints a grim picture for the future of Canberra’s aquatic leisure facilities.
As developers increasingly prioritize urban development, Canberra could be left with just one outdoor pool on the southside and another on the northside. This potential reality is causing concern among residents and local officials, who see it as a significant loss for community recreation.
Current State of Canberra’s Outdoor Pools
According to the government’s population projections, by 2065, the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) will house approximately 800,000 people—430,000 on the northside and 370,000 on the southside. Currently, the southside may be left with only the historic 30-metre Manuka pool, which, despite its charm, is inadequate for such a large population.
On the northside, the Dickson Aquatic Centre stands as the sole outdoor pool option. However, this facility alone is insufficient to meet the needs of over 400,000 residents. Meanwhile, the beloved Phillip swimming pool remains operational but faces an uncertain future with plans for a 25-metre indoor replacement.
Impact of Development and Loss of Green Spaces
The trend of losing outdoor pools is not just about the water; it represents a broader loss of green, shaded spaces essential for relaxation and community gatherings. The Phillip outdoor 50-metre pool is under threat from Geocon’s residential redevelopment plans, which include a smaller indoor pool and a splash pad.
Similarly, the Big Splash water park at Macquarie, once a vibrant community hub, now sits empty and vandalized. The lessee intends to redevelop the site into commercial residences, including a hotel with an indoor pool.
The Civic Pool Controversy
The Civic indoor and outdoor pools are also slated for demolition to make way for the ACT government’s proposed entertainment precinct. This decision has sparked outrage, as these pools are integral to the community’s recreational landscape.
“The $138 million Commonwealth Park aquatic centre is in the works, promising a 50-metre lap pool. However, community members remain skeptical about its user-friendliness compared to the Civic pool, known for its diving boards and grassy areas.”
Community Response and Government Accountability
A recent public meeting called for a comprehensive long-term aquatics strategy, urging the ACT government to collaborate with the community. The current approach of sporadically distributing private and public facilities is no longer viable, given the valuable nature of land in Canberra.
Critics argue that Access Canberra has been ineffective in enforcing lease agreements, allowing sites like Big Splash to deteriorate. There are calls for the government to reclaim these sites and ensure they serve the public interest.
“The ACT government should be managing outdoor public pools for the benefit of its growing population, rather than leaving them to be privately run by developers,” a concerned resident stated.
The Future of Canberra’s Aquatic Facilities
The outlook for Canberra’s outdoor pools remains uncertain. While the government has plans for new facilities, the community’s trust hinges on transparent and inclusive planning processes. The promise of a new dive pool at Stromlo, for instance, has yet to materialize, raising questions about future commitments.
As Canberra continues to grow, the need for accessible and well-maintained outdoor recreational spaces becomes increasingly critical. The city’s residents await decisive action from the government to preserve these vital community assets.
In the coming years, the focus will likely shift towards innovative solutions that balance urban development with the preservation of recreational spaces. Until then, the fate of Canberra’s outdoor pools hangs in the balance, with residents advocating for their cherished aquatic venues.
