Excavators have begun removing more than 22,000 cubic metres of soil in preparation for building the base structure of the $135 million project. More than 700 piles will support the building and aquatic structures.

The earthworks and piling works represent the first major steps of the build following planning approval for the sustainably designed centre in North Adelaide’s Park 2. Some of the excavated soil will be temporarily stored onsite for reuse to backfill the existing centre pools after the demolition works are completed later in the year.

The new centre, which will be powered by 100 percent renewable energy and constructed with primarily locally-sourced, low-carbon emission materials, will feature extensive indoor and outdoor pool areas, water slides, splash zones and lawned recreation facilities. It will also contain gym and fitness facilities, a spa/sauna/steam room and improved community change rooms.

To deliver this world-class facility and minimise the impact of construction on the Park Lands, the existing aquatic centre will close on 1 August 2024 with the new centre to open in the summer of 2025-26. Once the new centre is completed, the existing centre will be demolished and the 1000 square metres of land it sits on will be returned to Park Lands.

Images via the South Australia Department for Infrastructure and Transport