Darebin Is Getting a New Aquatic and Recreation Centre Including Outdoor and Indoor Pools

In good news for northside Melbourne residents heading into summer — a brand new aquatic and rec centre complete with indoor and outdoor swim lanes is coming to Northcote. The Northcote Aquatic and Recreation Centre (fondly named NARC) redevelopment project will see the much-loved community hub transformed into a space boasting a 50-metre outdoor pool, 25-metre indoor pool and warm water area.

For the little ones, a dedicated learn-to-swim pool along with aqua indoor and outdoor play areas are also promised. The fitness centre will also be home to multi-purpose spaces for group fitness classes including yoga, reformer pilates, and consulting rooms for health professionals.

The new Northcote Aquatic and Recreation Centre is spearheaded by Clublinks, who also operate Darebin Community Sports Stadium, Bundoora Park Public Golf Course and Northcote Public Golf Course.

Image: Images courtesy of project architects Warren and Mahoney.

"The Northcote Aquatic and Recreation Centre will be a true neighbourhood hub, in which all members of the community feel welcomed," Clublinks CEO Anthony Lawrence says.

An inclusive design focus at the renewed Northcote Aquatic and Recreation Centre extends to its community event programming, which is set to include LGBTIQA+ friendly aqua aerobics and Sensory Sensitive swimming days.

"The facility has been thoughtfully designed with accessibility in mind, featuring ramps providing easy access to all pools and a lift for access to the first floor. Additionally, NARC will offer well-equipped changed rooms, including dedicated spaces for accessibility, ensuring that everyone can fully enjoy the facility's amenities," Mayor of Darebin Cr Julie Williams says.

Image: Images courtesy of project architects Warren and Mahoney.

NARC is set to open later this year, but to get the community excited, a series of events dubbed The Big Warm-Up will land in Darebin in the coming months. Free coffee and breakfast will be served between 7am-9am at Northcote station on Thursday, Aug 10, before heading to Bell station on Tuesday, Aug 15. Finally, Alphington commuters will be treated on Thursday, Aug 24 to fruit salad, housemade granola, chia pudding and muffins.

Northcote Aquatic and Recreation Centre is set to open in late 2023. Memberships are currently open on the website, including pre-sale fitness and learn-to-swim memberships.

Images: Images courtesy of project architects Warren and Mahoney, supplied.