The City of Newcastle is pushing forward with a contentious $39.8 million redevelopment of the historic Newcastle Ocean Baths, despite a fierce call from a community group to immediately withdraw the plans.
Heritage Advocates Demand Transparency and Delay
The Friends of Newcastle Ocean Baths (FONOB) has launched a scathing critique of the Stage 2 development application, lodged by the council on November 25, 2025. The group alleges a critical lack of transparency around the project's cost, the potential for alcohol service at the iconic swimming venue, and the integrity of the public consultation process.
FONOB President Peter Wickham has demanded the DA be pulled and re-exhibited in the new year. "Pushing a $40 million redevelopment through during Christmas, alongside undisclosed plans for alcohol, is not transparency," Mr Wickham stated. "The community deserves honesty, visibility, and a fair chance to participate."
Council Hits Back, Cites Urgent Need for Action
A City of Newcastle spokesman strongly rejected the calls for withdrawal, accusing FONOB of consistently trying to stop both Stage 1 and Stage 2 of the vital restoration. "The suggestion that the DA should be withdrawn simply because a user group doesn't support the project is hugely irresponsible," the spokesman said.
He emphasised the urgency of the project, noting the baths pavilion is now more than 100 years old and that failure to act would likely lead to its demise. The spokesman explained the $39.8 million estimated cost is comparable to the Newcastle Art Gallery expansion and is driven by the site's recent listing on the State Heritage Register, which rules out a cheaper knock-down rebuild.
"The cost of renewing the pavilion will require 'bespoke' engineering solutions and materials to protect it from the swells that regularly smash over the baths," he added.
Key Design Changes and the Alcohol Question
The lodged plans reveal several key design alterations for Stage 2, which focuses on the pavilion building. These include:
- A revised north-south layout for the change rooms, creating a central entry point.
- An increased roof height over the change areas to allow more natural light.
- An expanded cafe and kiosk in the southern wing, offering both sit-down dining and takeaway.
The inclusion of a cafe has raised questions about alcohol service. The council confirmed that while any licensed NSW cafe can apply to serve alcohol, the baths and surrounding area currently sit within an Alcohol Regulated Area (ARA), prohibiting consumption. This ARA remains until February 2026.
The council spokesman sought to allay fears, stating, "The consumption of alcohol will not be permitted anywhere other than the future cafe... This means alcohol will continue to not be permitted at the pool and promenade areas." Any future operator would need to comply with strict responsible service obligations.
The state government will assess the DA, setting a 28-day consultation period. The council has noted that the three-week period from December 20 to January 10 will not be counted in this window due to the Christmas break. In an effort to engage the community, the City of Newcastle will host an information event at the baths on December 10 from 4pm to 7pm.
The council remains steadfast in its ambition. "We are determined to restore the baths to its former glory so it can once again become a destination that serves all Newcastle residents, while also promoting our city to the rest of the world," the spokesman concluded.
