While from outside Helensburgh Pool's fences things might not look that different, inside the facilities amenities and pool plant room, there is a lot happening.
Since starting two weeks ago, the internal fixtures within the amenities have been removed and we are now taking on some of the heavier demolition work including the removal of internal walls and floor tiles.
Soon, we will start on external demolition to allow for the construction of accessible amenities, new accessible pathways and an enhanced entrance to the facility.
Progress continues on the plant room upgrades which will see upgraded equipment and chemical dosing systems, improving performance and water quality in the revamped pool.
The planned works are running to schedule and remain on target for a reopening before the January summer peak.
What works are happening at Helensburgh Pool?
In all, the project includes:
- refurbishment of the 25m and toddlers' pools including structural remediation, resealing the construction joints, a full repaint and retiling
- complete refurbishment of the male and female amenities including new partitions and fixtures
- construction of a new changing places toilet and other accessibility upgrades
- construction of a new accessible toilet and parking spaces
- resurfacing the pool concourse
- installation of new handrails, seating, shade and bike racks
- improvements to pool concourse lighting
- the existing shade structure will be painted, and new shade cloth will be installed
- refurbishing the existing pool plant room
- replacing the ageing pool plant and equipment
The works on the pool are supported by grant funding from the NSW Government's Multi Sport Community Facility Fund.
Why now?
We've been working for some time toward a refurbishment of Helensburgh Pool and this project has evolved in recent years following community feedback.
As many in the close-knit community will remember, Council has considered several options for the pool site in recent years including the construction of a combined library, community centre and pool facility.
It was important to take the time to get the plans for both the pool and combined community centre and library right to ensure they're meeting community needs and getting the best value for ratepayers.
We are moving forward on the pool refurbishment and constructing a separate combined Community Centre and Library at 53-55 Walker Street, Helensburgh. Construction is anticipated to start on this project in 2027.
While the original plan for the pool works was a full season closure, further detailed technical assessments carried out early in 2025 confirmed the pool shell was in a better condition than previously anticipated.
Carrying out these supplementary checks as we were finalising the design specifications for the project and its budget, minimises the risk that we will be faced with unexpected delays and additional costs.
It also meant we were able to reduce the works schedule from a full September to April swim season to approximately four months.
By undertaking these works now we're able to extend the lifespan of the pool for another 30 years.
Next Steps
We're committed to keeping the community informed about the works underway at Helensburgh Pool and the estimated reopening timeframe. We'll share milestone updated on a dedicated webpage: wollongong.nsw.gov.au/Helensburgh-pool
"I'd like to thank the Helensburgh community for their patience and understanding as we complete this essential refurbishment at their local pool,'' Lord Mayor of Wollongong Councillor Tania Brown said.
"I appreciate there will be disappointment knowing that this pool isn't going to open on 27 September like Council's other pools, but we're working hard to have it open in time for the January school holidays.
"While it may be less convenient to drive the 10 minutes from Helensburgh to Stanwell Park Beach or 12 minutes to hit the rock pool at Coalcliff, it's a short-term adjustment so that people can enjoy this pool for another 30 years. Can you imagine! The toddlers' pool structural remediation means the kids paddling in it this summer might be sharing it with their own kids in 30 years' time.''
While the pool is closed for refurbishment, the permanent Lifeguards who usually work at this pool will be redeployed to other pools while the work is underway.
This project is proudly supported by grant funding from the NSW Government's Multi-Sport Community Facility Fund.
