Shellharbour City Council has endorsed the draft Shellharbour Aquatic Facilities Review for public exhibition, marking the next step in planning for the future of local pools and aquatic services.
The draft review provides a long-term framework to guide future investment, maintenance and service delivery across Council's aquatic facilities, helping ensure they continue to meet the needs of a growing community.
Caption: Council has endorsed the draft Shellharbour Aquatic Facilities Review for public exhibition. Image courtesy of Shellharbour City Council
Council currently operates four aquatic facilities across the city: Albion Park Pool, Oak Flats Pool, Warilla Pool and Beverley Whitfield Ocean Pool. These facilities support recreation, fitness, swimming lessons, water safety education, community wellbeing and local sport.
Shellharbour City Mayor Chris Homer said the review is an important planning document that will help guide future decision-making.
"Whether it's learning to swim, doing laps before work, cooling off on a hot day or cheering on the kids at a carnival, our pools play an important role in everyday life across Shellharbour," Mayor Homer said.
"These facilities have been part of our community for generations, and it's important that we plan carefully so they continue to meet the needs of our growing city well into the future."
The review examines community demand, facility condition, future infrastructure needs and opportunities to improve aquatic services across the city.
Mayor Homer said community feedback would play an important role in shaping the final review.
"We've already heard how important our pools are for recreation, fitness, learning to swim and connecting with others. Now we're inviting the community to tell us whether we've got the balance right as we plan for the years ahead.
Council recently undertook community engagement as part of the review, with residents highlighting the importance of local pools for recreation, fitness, water safety and community connection.
The draft review includes a range of recommendations for consideration as part of Council's long-term planning. Any future actions would be subject to further assessment, funding availability and future Council decisions.
Residents can view the draft review and provide feedback via Let's Chat Shellharbour from 26 August 2026.
KEY MESSAGES:
• Shellharbour City Council has endorsed the draft Shellharbour Aquatic Facilities Review for public exhibition.
• The review will help guide future planning and investment in local aquatic facilities.
• Any future actions will be subject to further assessment, funding availability and future Council consideration.
