Newcastle council has unveiled changes to its planned Newcastle Ocean Baths upgrade, repositioning a pool access ramp, altering shade structures and retaining a heritage staircase.
Revised concept designs for the upcoming pool and concourse makeover show a number of changes have been made to the concepts released in March following consultation with a community reference group (CRG).
"We've heard valuable feedback ... and adjusted the design to ensure the baths meet the needs of our community and visitors," lord mayor Nuatali Nelmes said.
"We've carefully considered the location of the ramp access into the pools and following advice from the CRG and in consultation with disability advocates have realigned the new ramp to the western edge of the pool to allow long lap swimming.
"Our community values the existing rounded central stairs and they'll be incorporated in the new design within upgraded seating."
Mark Metrikas, co-chair of the National Trust's Hunter Regional Committee, said he was pleased to see the central stairs would be retained.
"City of Newcastle has worked closely with National Trust on seeking advice as to how the stairs can be incorporated into the new design, as well as sharing additional information about the engineering and safety considerations," he said.
Detailed designs will now be produced incorporating any final feedback from the CRG.
The elected council will ultimately endorse the project's construction.
The lower concourse and pool works are the first stage of upgrades at the venue.
Stage two will focus on the pavilion and upper concourse.
The works are being funded with the proceeds from civic building sales.
