Moreland City Council Unveils $14 Million Redevelopment of Brunswick Baths, in Melbourne’s North
"Brunswick Baths is currently used by more than 450,000 people each year,” Councillor Enver Erdogan said. “The new design will allow current patrons a greater level of service, facilities and comfort, and enable a greater and more diverse portion of our community to enjoy this fantastic resource. We are confident the new Brunswick Baths can be the perfect fit for young and old and everyone in between.”
Consultation for the redevelopment of the Baths began in 2007.
“Brunswick Baths is in desperate need of an overhaul,” Councillor Alice Pryor said. “It is also an iconic leisure centre with great character to be protected. I urge the community to view the concept design and continue to give us your feedback on the future of the Brunswick Baths.“
The design will be presented to Council at its 8 April meeting. Residents can view the plans at Moreland civic centres. Construction is due to commence mid-2010.
Key Features of the Concept Plan
Expanded or improved facilities include:
• Creche increased from 7 to 35 places
• Additional multi-use special services / consulting rooms for health and well-being services
• Health Club / Gymnasium expanded and on one level with flexible, multi-use program rooms
• Bicycle parking, in conjunction with improved streetscape
• Indoor pool upgraded to full a 25m, with six 2.25m lanes
• Spa improvements
• Entry and reception revamp
• Improved changing rooms
• Indoor and outdoor service and seating areas for cafe
• Pool plant
• Outdoor concourse space and landscaping
Additional facilities include:
• Indoor and outdoor seating
• Shading, including retaining established trees where possible
• Indoor warm-water program pool with ramp access
• Ramp access to 50m pool
• Outdoor water play area / shallow pool / water features
• Indoor water play area / splash pad
• Operable glass doors, to integrate indoor aquatic spaces with outdoor aquatic spaces when weather permits
Retention of historical features
Community consultation and a Conservation Management Plan have highlighted the value of historical features. Features identified as significant and included in the concept plan are:
• Art deco façade on Dawson Street
• Ceiling of the indoor pool
• Mural on the brick wall along the railway side of the site.
The concept plan includes demolition of the buildings at the Phoenix Street-end of the site. Council is working with the Brunswick Small Bore Rifle Club and the Moreland City Band to investigate alternative accommodation options.
