Modular public pool designs proposed to solve ageing pool crisis
The NSW Government says it has a “secret weapon” in tackling the housing crisis: a pattern book of modular homes built off-site more cheaply than current on-site construction methods. The government launched its housing pattern book in July, where the public can access the pre-approved designs for $1.
Inspired by this concept, Royal Life Saving NSW, Cox Architecture and Waterco have combined to launch modular designs for public swimming pools.
The Future of Pools pattern book has the potential to reduce the cost of replacing ageing swimming pool infrastructure for many local councils – especially the smaller ones for whom the cost is often prohibitive.
RLS says that nearly 40 per cent of the Australia’s 1200 public pools will reach end-of-life by 2030, representing an estimated $8 billion replacement cost. The average public pool is nearly 60 years old, and many facilities are energy-inefficient, costly to maintain, or no longer meet community needs.
There are estimates that one third of local governments will not be able to meet the cost of replacement or refurbishment.
The Future of Pools pattern book offer councils the option of a 50-metre or 25-metre length, five or eight lanes, and various pool depths – as well as choice of amenities such as cafes, gyms and offices.
The pools would have the capacity to have more amenities and features added at a later date.
“We are imagining a future where aquatic facilities can be delivered faster, smarter, and more affordably than ever before – without sacrificing quality, safety or community value,” says Royal Life Saving NSW CEO Michael Ilinsky.
Modularisation benefits from economies of scale, alleviates some of the issues with a trade skill shortage in regional and remote locations, and could be delivered in a truncated timeframe – estimated at eight months.
Cox Architecture director Alastair Richardson says the unit cost of modular housing could save between 10 per cent to 30 per cent of the cost price, with hopes the savings could be even greater once scale is developed beyond the pilot process.
This partnership's stated aim is to shift the conversation from traditional, capital-heavy builds to innovative, modular, scalable and community-led solutions that can be delivered faster and more affordably – without compromising quality, safety or community value.
The collaboration combines:
Royal Life Saving’s expertise in drowning prevention and sector leadership;
Cox Architects’ internationally recognised design capability;
Waterco’s industry-leading water technology and systems;
Public policy analysis, cost modelling, and community consultation.
IMAGE: A selection of designs from the pattern book (Supplied)
