Baulkham Hills’ Waves Aquatic Centre to close at end of March for $48 million redevelopment

February 18, 2020

Aquatics / Design / Fitness / Recreation /

The Waves Aquatic Centre in Baulkham Hills is to close for up to two years from 31st March, for a redevelopment that will include a FINA standard Olympic-sized 50 metre pool with a total of 10 lanes, a 25-metre indoor learn to swim and family leisure pool, a new swimming club clubhouse, an additional 20 metre warm water pool, including spa/sauna facilities, new reception, retail and management facilities as well as a large gym and fitness centre.

The Hills Shire Council is pursuing a $48 million redevelopment of the Centre that will see the current facility levelled, with the expansion project - including blueprints for new indoor and outdoor pools and a massive gym - to be decided by a NSW Government planning panel this week.

The Council submitted plans for the redevelopment of the ageing aquatic centre to the Sydney Central City Planning Panel for determination following the approval of plans in December.

The Plans appearing before the Panel coincide with Council having short-listed four construction companies for the rebuild.

Commenting on the impending closure and subsequent redevelopment, Hills Mayor Michelle Byrne told the Hills Shire Times “many happy memories have been made at Waves by Hills locals for more than half a century - that’s why it’s important we find the best company who will not only modernise it, but ensure its reputation remains as a loved community asset.

“There will be some short term pains during the 18 to 24 month closure, as construction takes place, but the end goal will totally be worth it.

“I’m incredibly proud the council is delivering this visionary state-of-the-art facility and I can’t wait to see this new community asset being enjoyed by residents for generations to come.”

The Council have 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.

Construction will commence shortly after the site has been decommissioned and a construction company chosen for the knock down and rebuild.

Images: A lap swimmer at the soon-to-close Waves Aquatic Centre (top, courtesy of The Hills Shire Council), Waves Aquatic Centre Masterplan video prepared by NBRS Architecture/Donovan Payne and concept plans for the redevelopment of Waves Aquatic Centre (below).

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