Sydney is world renowned for its opera house and bridge, but often forgotten is its ocean pools. Boasting 35 ocean pools across its city limits – more than any other city worldwide! Nearly every beach features one, often at its southern end to offer protection from southerly winds bringing cold air and surf into Sydney waters. “Sydney has a real passion for swimming,” notes historian Marie-Louise McDermott who has written extensively on this topic; many residents don’t surf so need somewhere safe and relaxing for them to relax when Southerly winds arrive bringing cold winds along with them cold air and surf swells into shore waters bringing with them cold winds from overseas; just about every beach features one to give swimmers refuge when Southerly winds bring cold winds into town from across Australia or further west, she adds “They want somewhere safe to swim and relax while not worrying about cold winds coming off shore!”
These pools serve as an essential reminder of our dependence on water, while also representing an integral part of our heritage and serving to keep residents and visitors active and healthy in the city. Plus, they’re the perfect way to escape summer’s heat while taking in some sunrays!
While these pools provide the pleasures of a refreshing dip, they have also encountered considerable difficulties. Cost overruns, delays, design criticisms and heritage concerns have put some of Sydney’s beloved pool upgrades into question – one such pool being North Sydney Olympic Pool which underwent a $64 million makeover which has sparked protests and controversy.
Even with these obstacles, the redevelopment project remains on schedule and should open by November. The new pool will feature upgraded pools, children’s water playground and gym; but its controversial nature has brought to light some of the problems facing Australian pool industry.
Many agree that upgrading their pool is necessary; however, many critics remain. Some are worried about spending too much money in such a small area while others fear it will take away from its beautiful natural environment.
Others are concerned with the lack of transparency surrounding decision-making processes, including approval procedures and expenditure of funds.
Due to these reasons, some are demanding an examination of the decision-making process and seeking appointment of a new project manager; others urge federal intervention on this project.
Even amid criticism, redevelopment will likely proceed due to its significance for the community. It will improve quality of life for local residents while drawing tourists into the city – both of which will boost its economy – making the new pool worth it regardless of any controversy it might generate.
Equilibrium Pools’ team can assist in both installing a new pool and renovating an existing one, with exceptional craftmanship and intimate client services since their formation six years ago. Now they’re strengthening this model with an online system designed to better track projects and communicate with clients – this new platform features photos, stages completed, documents and scheduling so it will make monitoring your build progress much simpler!