Maintenance work to start on Austinmer and Towradgi ocean pools

AHEAD of the warmer summer weather, Wollongong City Council is carrying out some essential maintenance to Austinmer and Towradgi rock pools.

At Austinmer the works will be phased to minimise disruption to users, with the northern pool remaining open throughout the whole project.

The first phase, started on Thursday, focussed on repair works to the concourse between the two pools.

Council will undertake the work in two sections over two weeks, depending on weather and tidal conditions. Warning flags will be placed around the work and Council is asking people to avoid the strip between the pools.

The southern pool will need to be closed during the second stage of work, which is expected to start in late November depending on weather and tidal conditions. This stage will see the replacement of the intake pipe and works to raise the abutment at the pool’s north eastern corner.

At Towradgi rock pool the space will be closed next week while cracks to the concourse are repaired, a concrete panel is replaced, and the concrete joints are resealed.

While low tides are forecast, the works can only be completed depending on sea levels and swell conditions.

“Maintenance is important as it keeps our pools in good shape for our passionate swimmers as well as those who just enjoy the opportunity to float and splash about,’’ Council’s acting director of infrastructure Joanne Page said.

“We know Austinmer and Towradgi are well-used and much-loved spaces, with amazing ocean and escarpment views.

“By doing this work now, we’re ensuring the pools are in good shape for summer peak, when the weather – and the water – really warms up.’’

While Towradgi’s works are expected to take about a week, the Austinmer pool works are anticipated to be finished by the end of the year.

At Austinmer access to the beach, the pools, and surf club building will remain open during the works, and there will be traffic control and signage in place to safely direct pedestrians and vehicles.

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