The re-establishment of the Belmont Baths is one step closer to becoming a reality, with Lake Macquarie City Council completing a new concept design for the swimming and recreation area. The former facility was destroyed during the superstorm in 2015.
In April, council voted to build a new jetty and protected swimming enclosure to replace the damaged infrastructure. Council's acting Manager of Community Planning, Wes Hain, says they've recently reached the "milestone" of approving a concept design for the new project.
"Accessibility was a key aspect of the design as we want the new Belmont Baths to be a space that all members of our community can use and enjoy," says Mr Hain.
Early cost estimates put the bill at approximately $700,000, some of which council hopes to have subsidised. Council project officer David Middleton says they're "seeking extra funds for the amenities work, which we're confident we'll be successful with those [applications]".
Work is expected to commence in the second half of 2018, with the project expected to be completed in time for Christmas.
