If the proposal goes through, the complex would be the first pool in the city since the demolition of the Perth City Baths in 1920.

A relocatable barge has been proposed that would contain the pool, timber decking and changing rooms. It would be anchored to a pontoon that includes a sundeck, showers and river access, with admin offices to be located in a converted shopping container onshore.

“The idea came from visiting the quay over the last couple of years, from the excitement of the first completion to seeing boarded-off areas for future development, and understanding it was going to take maybe a generation to complete the big towers,” explained Will Lakin, principal of Group GSA. “My attention turned to what we could do to support the city to activate one of the central tourist hotspots for public use.”

The plan has reportedly been “encouraged” by the Metropolitan Redevelopment Authority.

Images by Group GSA