Newcastle Council Seeks Community Feedback On Ocean Baths

 BY IAN CROUCH

Newcastle Council is encouraging residents to have their say on the revitalisation of the city's ocean baths.

The final stage of the upgrade to the baths is already underway, however council wants to hear from the community on preferred options for the pavilion buildings.

Among the ideas being put forward is a plan for a second story, as well as options for a cafe and kiosk to operate alongside community spaces and change facilities.

Residents can head to council's website and view the preliminary options and provide feedback until June 12.

Newcastle Ocean Baths Picture: City Of Newcastle

Newcastle Residents Group Wants Guarantee On Baths Plans

BY IAN CROUCH

A community group fighting to save the ocean baths at Newcastle and Merewether fear council has left the door open for privatisation.

Council pulled out of a plan to have the $10 million dollar redevelopment of the baths pavilions undertaken by the private sector and committed to funding the projects itself.

However, the Friends of Newcastle Ocean Baths says council's website still leaves the way open for ongoing commercial operations and the generation of income from commercial uses.

The Group is concerned this fails to completely rule out future privatisation on the baths.

A petition started by the group is calling on council to listen to the community's ideas about restoring the pavilions and ensure they remain in public hands.

The petition has so far attracted more than 16,800 signatures.

Newcastle Ocean Baths facade Picture: Newcastle City Council