The ACT government has announced a 12-month development of a new aquatic strategy to guide future investment in public pools, with plans to build a 50-metre outdoor pool in Woden. Chief Minister Andrew Barr unveiled the strategy on Thursday, confirming the government's commitment to the new facility. He said early work on potential sites had been conducted and construction could begin as early as mid-2028.
The strategy will investigate the requirements for the future of public pools in Canberra. Mr Barr also committed to a multi-sport deep pool, following the replacement of Canberra Olympic Pool in Civic with a shallower pool at Commonwealth Park. He admitted the government lacked the budget for an Olympic-standard diving facility but said it would investigate building one elsewhere.
Royal Life Saving Australia estimates 40 per cent of public pools nationally will cease to function by 2030 without major repairs or replacements. Mr Barr said the goal of the strategy was to provide as much amenity as possible within recreational facilities while working responsibly within available budgets.
Save Phillip Pool campaigner Sarah Ransom expressed relief but was cautiously optimistic, seeking a commitment that the existing 50-metre pool in Phillip would remain open until the Woden pool is operational. Independent MLA Fiona Carrick, who has long called for a new pool in Woden, welcomed the announcement but wants shovels in the ground before the next territory election in October 2028.
The timing of the announcement has raised eyebrows amid revelations that the ACT Greens and Canberra Liberals have discussed forming a coalition to replace the Labor government. Ms Carrick suggested political pressure may have influenced the timing. Greens Leader Shane Rattenbury pointed to Phillip Pool as an issue prompting discussions with Opposition Leader Mark Parton about a power-sharing arrangement.
Mr Barr dismissed suggestions of political influence, stating the pool plan had been foreshadowed previously and that he was focused on delivering outcomes. He noted that parties talking in a minority parliament was unsurprising.
