Sydney's iconic harbour is set to gain a new treasure this summer, as a state-of-the-art tidal swimming pool prepares to open on the banks of Callan Park in Lilyfield. This ambitious project, part of a broader revitalisation effort within the park, promises not only to enhance public access to its waterways but also to return 1.6 hectares of green space to the community.
The new tidal baths will boast a shark net for safety, a fixed jetty, a pontoon, and an accessible pathway and ramp into the water, ensuring enjoyment for visitors with diverse needs. This facility is set to draw thousands of swimmers to the southern banks of the Parramatta River, injecting life into this vibrant corner of Sydney.
As construction of the pool gets underway, demolition work has begun on nine dilapidated buildings within Callan Park – structures deemed 'eyesores' and 'safety hazards' by the Minns government. The removal of these structures is expected to conclude by the end of 2026, returning a significant area of the park to its former glory.
Minister for New South Wales Planning and Public Services, Paul Scully, has hailed the Callan Park upgrades as a 'new era' for the area. The return of open green space, accompanied by the new tidal baths, will allow more people to enjoy the parkland – a move set to have a ripple effect on local communities.
The Callan Park project is part of a broader trend in Sydney, where the city's governmental push to reconnect its natural aquatic environments with public spaces is bearing fruit. Recent additions include Marrinawi Cove at Barangaroo and Bayview Park on the Parramatta River, which reopened after more than five decades. Other notable developments, such as Chiswick baths and Cabarita beach, are expanding recreational opportunities across the region – all of them reflecting a renewed commitment to harnessing Sydney's natural beauty for the benefit of its citizens.