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It’s been a long time coming and a whole lot of controversy, but North Sydney’s beloved Olympic Swimming Pool is almost ready to reopen after a huge, drawn-out redevelopment project. It’s good news for swimmers, but the proposed new $11 entry fee has the local community up in arms.
According to the community, an $11 casual entry fee has been put forward by the North Sydney Council with a flat out rejection of any local resident discount.
The Council’s report – which has been placed on public display – cites a number of reasons why a discount would not be offered, including operating costs, loan repayments and market analysis of surrounding facilities.
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“While a resident discount may feel equitable for residents who regularly use NSOP, it would reduce the Pool’s income overall,” stated the report.
“That shortfall would then need to be covered through higher subsidies from Council, funded by all ratepayers. This includes residents who do not use the Pool at all.”
This has left North Sydney local residents suitably miffed given their council rates subsidised the facilities’ redevelopment.
“Besides the locals already paying for it, they need those exact people to visit regularly and grow to love it again. Very bad move,” wrote Carmel Montgomery on Instagram.
“No discount for residents when we have funded this and no discount on rates for the last 5 years for loss of amenity during this utter fiasco!” said Tracey Hayman on Instagram.
It’s estimated the North Sydney Olympic Pool redevelopment project blew its budget out by around $25 to $30 million, with the total estimated at more than $100 million. This rather large financial flop has undoubtedly raised eyebrows from the public especially in line with these proposed entry fee prices.
The proposed drafts and fees will be on public exhibition for 28 days before a report is given to local councillors where a final decision will be made. You can learn more over here.
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