Image: The Andrew (Boy) Charlton Pool. Wikimedia Commons
by GRACE JOHNSON
The iconic Andrew (Boy) Charlton Pool on Mrs Macquaries Road will close in May for 16 months for repairs, but many are wondering why it will take so long.
The news of the closure comes as other Sydney pool projects have experienced blown-out timelines, such as the infamous North Sydney Pool, which has been closed since 2021.
On the lower north shore, the pool at Willoughby Leisure Centre was originally slated to be opened in mid-2024, having been closed in 2022 for repairs. But this date is now in doubt, with a new timeline expected to be announced this month.
City of Sydney says the extensive maintenance works are essential, but some are concerned this could turn into another episode in the series of delayed pool repairs.
Liberal Councillor Lyndon Gannon told City Hub, “I can feel it in my waters that this is going to turn into another North Sydney Pool fiasco.”
“This administration doesn’t have a good track record of delivering pools on time. Time and again they’ve been blown out of the water.”
“It’s been reported that a complete new pool would only take a year to build; how is it that this project will take a minimum of 16 months?”
A City of Sydney spokesperson told City Hub, “We’re replacing the tiles and waterproof membrane on the main 50m outdoor pool, as well as the smaller 20m program pool.”
“The scope of works will also see essential maintenance carried out on the pool’s concrete and steel structure, with a new lift and decking also installed.”
“On top of this important maintenance work, the City will also future proof this vital piece of community infrastructure by replacing the gas heating system with electric heat pumps.”
The extensive works will see local residents without a pool next summer.
The council spokesperson said, “Maintaining outdoor pools, particularly in difficult to access marine environments like this one, can be challenging and often take longer than other outdoor pools that don’t extend over the harbour.”
The City of Sydney’s five other aquatic and fitness centres will remain open as usual, including the nearby Cook + Phillip Park Pool.
