Prince Alfred proving popular
Image: Splash palace . . . Prince Alfred Park Pool overview looking north towards city / Photo: City of Sydney
Citizens from far and wide are making the most of Sydney’s newest public outdoor heated pool, now that the $20.5 million facility in Surry Hills is open after years of troubled development.
The popularity of Prince Alfred Park Pool has been buoyed by the decision of the City of Sydney Council to permit casual free entry until November 13.
More than 50,000 visits have been recorded at the lavishly upgraded complex in its first five months of operations, with a record 1,681 people enjoying a swim on September 7, a City of Sydney spokesperson said.
People Unite Surry Hills (PUSH) convenor Venietta Slama-Powell said the pool had certainly attracted a lot more people to the park.
“The fact that it is free for six months encourages people to enjoy the facility on a daily or weekly basis and they’ve been quite impressed with it,’’ she said.
Ms Slama-Powell said she had not heard any complaints about overcrowding.
The City of Sydney spokesperson said the pool was cleaned daily and uses state-of-the-art technology for filtration and monitoring.
The pool’s popularity is expected to be boosted even further when it hosts its official open day this Saturday, October 19. The City has organised a barbecue, free family friendly activities, live music and entertainment from 11am to 1pm.
The festivities will celebrate the opening of the ‘splash palace’, which also signals the completion of the City’s major upgrade to Prince Alfred Park – the 7.5-ha park’s largest upgrade in 50 years.
The pool has bleachers and umbrellas, sky-lit changing rooms, shaded areas and a landscaped sunbathing space.
Toddlers have been kept in mind, with a splash deck play area – and their parents have not been forgotten, with the establishment of a new cafe.
The surrounding area has been improved with new paths, furniture and lights. Animated chimneys double as functional public art pieces
“The City of Sydney is pleased about the overwhelming success of Prince Alfred Park Pool and is very happy to see that it has been embraced by residents, visitors and city workers,’’ the spokeswoman said.
“The pool was designed to meet the needs of Sydneysiders now and into the future, and current numbers have been well within its capacity.’’
