Swimmers fight university’s plans to close down beloved pool

Swimmers in Brisbane's inner-north are rallying against the proposed closure of a popular university pool, which they say serves as a vital community asset. The Queensland University of Technology (QUT) has announced plans to shut down its 25-meter indoor swimming pool located in the Kelvin Grove Urban Village. This decision has sparked significant concern among local residents, particularly those who rely on the pool for physical therapy, recreation, and family activities.

The pool has become a cornerstone of the community, drawing a diverse range of users, including seniors, individuals with disabilities, and families introducing children to swimming. For many, the facility offers a consistent option throughout the year, unlike outdoor pools that often close during colder months. One such resident, 66-year-old Mike Goodman from Paddington, has been visiting the pool up to six times per week for nearly five years. His personal story highlights how the pool plays a crucial role in his recovery following hip replacement surgery. Goodman is now leading efforts to oppose the closure, emphasizing the importance of maintaining access to this essential resource.

QUT officials stated that the closure, scheduled for September 1, aims to create space for a new "purpose-built teaching, research and high-performance gym facility." According to QUT Vice-Chancellor Margaret Sheil, this decision aligns with the university's broader master plan, which includes updating aging infrastructure and enhancing the Kelvin Grove Urban Village. However, critics argue that the process lacked adequate community engagement prior to the announcement. Regular swimmers expressed frustration over not having been consulted beforehand, raising questions about transparency and inclusivity in the decision-making process.

In response to the controversy, a community-led initiative has gained momentum, with a petition launched in mid-June collecting over 500 signatures. The campaign seeks to delay the closure while investigating whether proper consultations occurred. Advocates hope to persuade the university to reconsider its stance and explore alternatives that could keep the pool operational. They emphasize the need for the university to address the specific needs of the community and potentially find solutions that accommodate both the institution's goals and the public interest.

QUT has outlined potential alternatives for swimmers affected by the closure, suggesting other local swimming facilities such as the 22.86-meter (25-yard) heritage Spring Hill Baths, Ithaca Pool near Suncorp Stadium, and Newmarket Pool. However, these options come with logistical challenges, especially considering the distance and accessibility issues. Notably, the nearby Centenary Pool, which is also set to close in late August, will undergo renovations for the upcoming Brisbane 2032 Olympics. This dual closure poses a challenge for regular swimmers seeking viable alternatives, particularly those without easy access to transportation or who face financial constraints related to parking in central areas.

As tensions continue to rise, the situation underscores the complex interplay between institutional priorities and community needs. While QUT emphasizes its commitment to developing modern facilities that support academic and athletic pursuits, the voices of long-time users highlight the irreplaceable value of the existing pool. The outcome of this conflict remains uncertain, with ongoing discussions likely to shape the future of swimming opportunities in the region.