The aquatic area at Richmond Recreation Centre is now closed until Saturday 1 February 2025 for essential upgrade works.

Why are we doing these upgrades now?

We have identified that the 25-year-old roof sheets on Richmond Recreation Centre's roof have become brittle from sun damage, to the extent that a hailstorm risks piercing the sheets. Risk of such an event include shards of poly carbonate plastic falling into the pool. Aside from the significant safety risk, this would force us to close the centre immediately for works – likely to extend beyond a month. 

The pressing need to proactively repair the roof was reinforced by heavy rain on Wednesday 26 November, which resulted in multiple leaks. 

To minimise the impact on our community while the roof works are being undertaken, we will also work on several other upgrades.

These works have been scheduled for January as it reduces the impact on families who utilise our Learn to Swim programs, which are in recess during the month.

We will work with members and casual users of Richmond Recreation Centre on alternative options, including free swim passes to our other two swimming pools.

What are the upgrades?

The upgrades planned to modernise our facilities and improve your experience at Richmond Recreation Centre include:

• Replacement of skylights in 50m pool area to allow for more natural light and replace end of life infrastructure.

• Refit of sauna and steam rooms to create a more relaxing experience, with reduced closure times for repairs.

• Tiling of steam room to make it easier to maintain cleanliness.

• Retiling of spa to minimise closures for repairs.

• Installation of new pool blankets to reduce electricity usage.

• Painting of wet changerooms to give these areas a refresh.

How will I be affected?

Aquatic areas

All aquatic areas, inclusive of the 50m pool, Toddler pool, sauna, spa and steam room will be closed during the works for upgrades. We encourage you to use our facilities at Collingwood Leisure Centre and Fitzroy Swimming Pool.

Aqua and Deep Water Running classes

Aqua and Deep Water Running classes in the 50m pool will be cancelled. We encourage you to visit Collingwood Leisure Centre during this time.

Group Exercise classes in the studio

The studio room which supports Empower, Empower+, Move for Life and some Group Exercise classes will be closed for part of this time. Classes may be modified, moved to the main gym or cancelled. Please check our timetable here for class options during this time.

Learn to Swim