Project update

On 17 June 2025, Council voted to endorse an amended motion to implement a $2 pool entry fee trial at Beresfield, Mayfield, Stockton and Wallsend inland swimming pools for the 2025/26 swimming season.

Lambton Pool will be actively considered for inclusion in any future expansion of the trial, or in the event that a permanent $2 fee structure is adopted, subject to further advice on risk management, safety, operational capacity and financial considerations.

$2 Pool Entry Fee Trial

We asked for your feedback on a proposal to trial reduced entry fees of $2 per person at City of Newcastle (CN) owned pools (Lambton, Mayfield, Beresfield, Wallsend and Stockton).

Without this change, regular pool entry fees will be similar to current season fees (e.g. for a single admission adult $6 at Lambton, $5.70 at Mayfield, Stockton and Wallsend, and $3.15 at Beresfield Pool). *Prices are subject to Consumer Price Index increases.

Because the operator of our pools retains pool entry income to support the operation of the pools' services, any difference between standard entry fees and $2 would be covered by City of Newcastle. The cost of the trial needs to be factored into the 2025/26 Budget.

It is important to note that in making a decision, Council needs to balance affordable access of our pools with financial sustainability and operations, and other relevant social and community impacts.

Thanks for having your say!

Thank you to everyone who provided feedback to assist the Council in making an informed decision about the trial. The survey was open from 8 May to 29 May 2025 and received 2,187 responses.

We heard that 95% of people supported the trial. Read the Engagement Reports to find out more (Summary or Detailed version).

All feedback received has been reviewed and considered alongside a report on the projected financial cost and implications of the proposed $2 fee, and its impact on the 2025/26 Budget.

In addition to the proposed trial, we are also planning significant investment during the next 12 months to maintain and improve our inland pools to ensure they continue to meet the expectations and evolving needs of the community.

We will continue to update the community as these projects progress.