LOCAL LIFE
New indoor pool to help Western Sydney
residents beat the heat
Mount Druitt Swimming Centre is set to receive the most significant upgrade in its 50-year history, including the addition of a new indoor learn-to-swim pool.
Blacktown City Council has released draft designs for the proposed $ 40.6 million redevelopment, funded through the NSW Government’ s Western Sydney Infrastructure Grants programme.
The redevelopment will transform the currently seasonal venue into a year-round facility for the local community.
Key features of the plan include:
• A 25-metre indoor learn-to-swim pool for both children and adults
• Refurbishment of the existing 50-metre outdoor pool
• Inclusive amenities and changerooms
• New community meeting spaces
• A kiosk serving patrons inside the pool area and the broader public
• Enhanced landscaping throughout the site
Blacktown City Mayor Brad Bunting, a proud Mount Druitt resident, said the redevelopment would modernise the centre and meet future demand.
“ Blacktown City has the largest population of any council in NSW and is growing rapidly, so it’ s essential that we provide high-quality facilities,” he said.
“ Swimming is a vital life skill, and these wide-ranging improvements will provide more opportunities for the community to learn and practise.
“ We saw how much the community values the centre during its 50th anniversary in March, and this project will ensure it remains a treasured asset for the next 50 years and beyond.”
Member for Mount Druitt Edmond Atalla welcomed the investment, saying the Swimming Centre continues to be a place for generations to connect through fun, fitness, and friendship.
“ I’ m thrilled the Minns Labor Government is committing $ 40.6 million to revitalise this centre, including a brandnew indoor pool,” Mr Atalla said.
“ This investment guarantees that future generations will benefit from this vital community asset, further enhancing Mount Druitt’ s role as a hub for recreation, wellbeing, and connection.”
Work is expected to commence in 2026 and take approximately 18 months to complete.
Architectural firm Lippman Partnership has been appointed to design a modern facility that harmonises with the surrounding landscape.
Principal architect Ed Lippmann said:“ The renewed Mount Druitt Swimming Centre will significantly contribute to the public realm and support the growth of Mount Druitt’ s urban centre.”
The Mount Druitt Pool Action Group, long-time advocates for the centre, expressed support for the redevelopment.
Member Sandra McAndrew said:“ We’ re pleased that Council has listened to the community and ensured the centre’ s future. The new complex will greatly benefit local residents, swimming students, and schools.”
Together with the recently announced expanded library and community hub, and another major project soon to be revealed, this redevelopment represents $ 86.9 million in Western Sydney Infrastructure Grants projects for the Mount Druitt town centre.
All projects form part of Council’ s wider masterplan to revitalise the area, improve accessibility, and maintain the
Cr Dorothy Del Villar, Member for Mount Druitt Edmond Atalla, Cr Talia Amituanai and Blacktown City Mayor Brad Bunting
town centre’ s parkland character.
Community consultation has been vital to the draft design process, with feedback gathered through pop-up sessions, council events, and online surveys.
Upcoming drop-in sessions for community feedback:
Wednesday 7 May 2025, 9.30 am – 11.30 am, Mount Druitt Library and Community Hub
Saturday 10 May 2025, 9.30 am – 11.30 am, Dawson Mall, Mount Druitt
Mount Druitt Swimming Centre is a much-loved local facility, known not only for its natural setting but also for quirky events like the Blacktown City Family Fish- In and Dive-In Movie nights.
Originally built by the NSW State Planning Authority, the centre opened in 1975 and has been managed by Council ever since.
8 ISSUE 50 // MAY 2025 theindependentmagazine. com. au BLACKTOWN CITY INDEPENDENT