Shellharbour City Council is set to deliver a major accessibility upgrade at Beverley Whitfield Ocean Pool, with a new permanent ramp making it safer and easier for people of all ages and abilities to enjoy the much-loved community facility.
Work is expected to begin in September 2025 and take up to 14 weeks to complete, subject to weather and ocean conditions. The tender for the project was awarded at last night's Council meeting.
The upgrade features a permanent ramp built on the western side of the ocean pool. The design meets accessibility standards and keeps all swimming lanes, reflecting the strong community feedback and Council's commitment to inclusive public spaces.
Caption: Concept design showing the location of the new accessible ramp at Beverley Whitfield Ocean Pool.
Image courtesy of Shellharbour City Council
Other improvements include resurfacing portions of the pool deck, so it sits flush with the pool edge and ties in with the new ramp, stormwater drainage upgrades and isolated repairs to the existing concrete concourse.
Mayor Chris Homer said the project was a major step forward for the city's only saltwater pool, a unique part of Shellharbour's coastline.
"This upgrade will make the ocean pool safer and more inclusive, so more people can enjoy it comfortably," Mayor Homer said.
"As our only saltwater pool, it has a special place in the community, and these works will ensure it continues to meet the needs of both casual swimmers and regular lap swimmers."
Beverley Whitfield Ocean Pool has been a part of Shellharbour's coastline since 1894. Originally known as the Ocean Baths, the pool was renamed in 1994 in honour of local Olympic swimmer Beverley Whitfield. It now welcomes around 170,000 visits each year and remains a favourite spot for lap swimmers, families and visitors.
