Plans for the highly anticipated final stage of the Newcastle Ocean Baths upgrade have been formally submitted, marking a significant step forward for the iconic coastal facility.
Revised Design Balances Heritage and Modern Needs
The City of Newcastle lodged the development application on Friday, November 21, 2025, outlining a revised design for the pavilion buildings that will not feature change rooms entirely open to the sky. This decision comes after extensive community consultation and feedback from Heritage NSW.
Rob Dudgeon, the council's Interim Executive Director of City Infrastructure, described the DA lodgement as a significant milestone for the project. He emphasised that the revitalisation aims to preserve the site's heritage while ensuring it serves the community for generations to come.
The distinctive art deco facade, now protected under a state heritage listing, will undergo crucial conservation and refurbishment works to maintain its structural stability.
Key Features of the Upgrade
The application details a comprehensive upgrade to the upper promenade and its surroundings, promising improved pedestrian access from Shortland Esplanade. A central focus is the northern pavilion, which will house new, inclusive change facilities.
These will include:
- Accessible amenities and a 'Changing Places' facility
- Two private family and non-gendered change rooms
- A mix of open and enclosed spaces for changing
- New toilets and showers
In response to technical studies and public feedback, the council has increased the roof height over the change rooms. This design change is intended to provide more natural light and an open-air feeling, while carefully balancing privacy, security, and the protection of the historic facade.
Enhanced Community Amenities and Next Steps
Beyond the change rooms, the project will deliver a substantially improved experience for visitors. An expanded cafe and kiosk in the southern wing will offer both sit-down dining and takeaway options. A new, bookable community space will be established next to the cafe, providing a valuable gathering spot for local groups.
The design also incorporates more shade structures, seating overlooking the Canoe Pool, and informal terraces. Additional outdoor seating and picnic areas have been included, along with a second service window for the kiosk facing the pool.
Mr Dudgeon noted that the prior upgrades to the pool and lower promenade have proven immensely popular, with more than 181,000 people visiting between September 2024 and April 2025.
The community is now encouraged to review the plans and provide formal feedback during the public exhibition period on the NSW Planning Portal. The Hunter and Central Coast Regional Planning Panel will assess the application. If approved, the council will finalise the detailed design and call for construction tenders, while also seeking a suitable operator for the cafe and kiosk.
