Long wait over as Parramatta gets a sparkling
new aquatic centre
S
ix years ago, Parramatta’s War Memorial Swimming Centre was demolished to make way for the state-of-the-art Western Sydney Football Stadium. While the residents were excited by the new stadium, they were disheartened by the loss of their much loved pool, and at the long timeframe set for its replacement. But now the new Parramatta Aquatic Centre has been opened – and it has been worth the wait. Set in the traditional lands of the Burramattagal in the
64
SPLASH!
August/September 2023
World Heritage listed Parramatta Park, the distinctive concept acknowledges the site’s history while creating a new, inclusive community hub. The centre features a 50-metre, 10-lane outdoor pool with seating; a 25-metre, indoor recreational pool; an indoor Learn-to-Swim pool; an indoor water playground; multipurpose community rooms; steam, spa and sauna facilities; a health and wellness centre including a modern gym and program rooms; a cafe; and car parking.
ABOVE: The new pool is set in the World Heritage listed Parramatta Park
BELOW: The 10-lane 50-metre outdoor pool is the focus of the centre