Tamworth’s long-awaited aquatic centre is edging closer to construction, with council moving into the final stages of planning and design as the swimming season comes to a close.
Work on the new facility has continued behind the scenes, with the project aimed at delivering year-round swimming and a centre of excellence for aquatics, education, and health.
Councillors agreed in August 2025 to enter an Early Contractor Involvement agreement, a step designed to reduce financial risk and ensure better value for the community as the project takes shape.
The approach allows specialist contractors to contribute during the planning phase, helping refine costs and identify more efficient construction methods before designs are finalised.
Since September, council staff have been working with preferred contractor Richard Crookes Constructions to develop a final design, drawing on more accurate costings from subcontractors and suppliers as well as technical advice on how the facility can be built.
Tamworth Region Mayor Russell Webb said the focus has been on ensuring the facility meets community needs well into the future.
“The team have been hard at it to find ways to improve the functionality of the centre so that it fits the needs of our community, not just in the next two years, but for the next 30 years,” Mayor Webb said.
“While the concept has been in the community for a long time, there is a big difference between a concept and turning that concept into a reality, so we have had to work hard to make sure we are getting the best facility at a price we can afford.”
The Early Contractor Involvement phase is now nearing completion, with council preparing to move into the next stage of the project.
Enabling works at the Hillvue site are expected to begin in the coming months, ahead of a council vote by June on the final budget, funding strategy, and construction contract.
If approved, that decision would pave the way for major construction works to begin.
Stage one of the project is currently backed by $45 million in funding, including $15 million from the NSW Government, $9 million from the Australian Government, and a $21 million contribution from Council.
Council has also signalled there will be opportunities for the community to stay informed and engaged as the project progresses, with updates to be provided through its consultation platform.
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