Splashing into the future

Published on 20 May 2022

The third stage of Council’s continued investment in the historic Enfield Aquatic Centre was unveiled to the community with great fanfare on Saturday 14 May.

More than 200 residents and visitors trickled in to get their first glimpse of the new heated programs pool and the renovated splash park for kids with the reaction overwhelmingly positive.

As part of the festivities the community were able enjoy free access to the centre, a barbeque, netball and basketball drills and giveaways, as well as a meeting with Olympic Medallist and 2X World Champion James Magnussen and 6X Paralympic Medallist Tiffany Thomas Kane.

A key component of this upgrade was the new 25 metre indoor pool dedicated to teaching children and adults to learn to swim. This salt water pool can be heated up to 32 degrees, and is a timely addition to the Aquatic Centre opening just in time for winter.

Also included in this part of the project is a new pool hall enclosure with a warm water program pool, new amenities, concourse floor heating system, the latest disinfection system and an expanded car park at the rear of the facility.

Mayor John Faker said the $5.4 million commitment underscores Council’s recognition of the history and importance of the site and its place in the heart of our community.

“When our pool opened in 1933 it was Sydney’s first ever freshwater pool and the deepest. Over the years many members of our community have learned to swim here. " Cr Faker said.

“Our ambitions for the facility don’t stop here. The next stage of works for the Enfield Aquatic Centre include a new foyer, undercover walk way, mezzanine administration level, change rooms, group rooms for wellbeing activities and café.

“When you walk through the iconic façade and see the old clock you can feel the living history of the place. This major project will expand the capabilities of the centre and secure its future for another 90 years. It is the latest instalment in a number of precinct wide upgrades at Henley Park and its surrounds,” he concluded.

Pictured are Olympic Medallist and 2X World Champion James Magnussen and 6X Paralympic Medallist Tiffany Thomas Kane

Cutting the ribbon to get the party started