Hills Shire Council decides on Waves concept plan

Written by on 29 August 2019

A FINA standard 10 lane 50 metre Olympic swimming pool, universal access ramps, a warm water program pool, spa and sauna facilities, underground car parking, café, community rooms, swimming club clubhouse and a kids water play area are just some of the exciting features residents can look forward to at the re-imagined Waves Aquatic Centre.

The Hills Shire Council approved a $55 million concept design for a knock down and rebuild of the much-loved Baulkham Hills facility during the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Tuesday, August 27.

Mayor of The Hills Shire, Dr Michelle Byrne said that when Waves was built in 1967, the decision makers of the day were visionary.

“I am proud to announce that we have made an equally visionary decision to provide a world-class facility that our residents deserve,” Mayor Byrne said.

“I’m am incredibly happy that all our hard work has paid off to deliver a state-of-the art aquatic centre, right here in The Hills.

“We have chosen an option that strikes a balance between recreational swimming and play, fitness, rehabilitation and squad training. It also provides indoor and outdoor recreational uses, as well as providing additional car parking and greatly improved gym space,” Mayor Byrne added.

The proposed revitalisation of Waves will include:

  • 50m pool – 10 x lanes
  • Combined indoor 25 metre learn to swim pool and family leisure pool
  • Swimming club clubhouse
  • Additional 20 metre warm water pool, including spa/sauna facilities
  • Reception, retail and management spaces
  • Large fitness group areas
  • Spectator seating
  • Additional meeting/ program room
  • Water play structure/ splash play area
  • Basement car parking with lift access
  • Indoor/outdoor café

“Council will now prepare a detailed design for a construction tender, with construction to commence in the first half of 2020,” Mayor Byrne said.

“We look forward to working with residents and users of the site as we continue on the journey to create a facility that can be enjoyed by residents for the next 50 years.”

Council also moved to adopt a Masterplan for the existing site, allowing the potential for further enhancements to be made at Waves in the future, including the inclusion of a 25 metre square pool and water slides.

Waves is scheduled to close on 31st March 2020 and Belgravia Leisure will continue to operate the facility up to this date. Construction will commence after closure.  

“We do take the expenditure of our ratepayers money very seriously. We understand $55 million is a lot of money to spend and we will be speaking to our State and Federal Government colleagues to help with the costs of the revitalisation project,” Mayor Byrne added.

“I would like to thank all the residents who have been part of the consultation and engagement process and whose valuable input has resulted in a great outcome for our community.”


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