Overview
These days, there probably aren't too many people who'd rush to take a dip in the Yarra River. But that's all set to change, as the team behind community-led project Yarra Pools continues its push to create a river pool and water precinct right on the banks.
In 2016, Melbourne non-profit Yarra Swim Co first released plans for a pool in the river. They've since spent two years consulting the community and finessing the concept, and this time round have teamed up with local firm WOWOWA Architecture. The newly proposed water park precinct would transform the riverbank area adjacent to Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium and make the Yarra swimmable once more.
The proposal features a 50-metre in-river lap pool, a kids pool and a natural leisure pool, all located amongst lush wetland areas. The precinct would also boast its own kayak launch point, outdoor pavilion, lookout platform, multipurpose room and on-site cafe, as well as a drop-off zone for shuttles headed to the aquarium. The proposed site stretches along the Yarra's northern riverbank and beneath the existing raised rail line, though incorporates a stack of natural plant life to help take the edge off the very urban setting.
Of course, the Yarra water needs to be made swimmable for all of this to work — it's filthy (thanks to that time it was a dumping ground for industrial run-off) and that water needs to be filtered. According to the project's website, they are looking into locally developed technology that may allow river water to supply the pool.
If you're keen to see the project kick off, you can submit feedback via the website and donate.