The City of Sydney is opening six pools for the public to enjoy during their summer open day this weekend. Whether it’s for a swim with sweeping harbour views, a bite at the newly reopened Oh Boy cafe or to stretch out in a yoga class, these city pools will be free of charge to visitors.
With its far-reaching coastline, magical harbour and abundance of urban public swimming pools, there’s no shortage of places to splash around in Sydney. But if you’re after a celebratory-style pool day, where you can turn Thirsty Merc up to full volume and get silly with your nearest and dearest, it’s always preferable to have a private space to call your own. And you don’t even need to own a pool to make that happen, thanks to apps such as Swimply (the Airbnb for pools). Since launching in 2019, it has built a portfolio of 130 private pools throughout Sydney, which can be booked by the hour at the touch of a button.
But if you’re in the market for a new pool, price is usually one of the biggest deal breakers. While it’s true that there are a wide variety of different prices and options available when it comes to new swimming pools, you can ensure you get the best value for your money by taking the time to shop around with several pool builders before making a decision. To help you out, we’ve put together a list of questions to ask your potential pool builder to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible.
SS 185-4 Definitions and general regulations
All construction and operation of swimming pools shall be in accordance with federal, state and local laws and codes and in compliance with the rules and regulations of the State Department of Health or other similar public authorities. A permit must be obtained prior to beginning construction.
The Village of Sydney requires that all new pools be constructed with concrete, and that any preexisting concrete swimming pool be converted to a vinyl liner swimming pool before July 1, 2022. The conversion must be done by a licensed contractor and must comply with all other Village of Sidney requirements.
New pools must also be equipped with a power safety cover that meets or exceeds ASTM F1346. The cover must be able to support the weight of four swimmers, and should also be tested for safety by a certified inspector. In addition, all new pools must be fenced and have a protective cover that is capable of preventing an unattended child from falling into the water.
Sydney and New South Wales are blessed with a host of beautiful ocean pools, built as a response to the wild coastline that is often exposed to the full force of the surf. Serene at low tide, choppy at high, they are a reminder of the sea’s power and the beauty of the natural world. Many, like the famous Bronte Baths, have been restored on a number of occasions after damage caused by wild storms.
