“Once the improvements have been completed, we will be able to offer a heated, Olympic-size pool that will be undercover and open all year round,” Coffs Harbour Mayor, Keith Rhoades, said.

“The city has a well-deserved reputation as a centre for sporting events and has the infrastructure and capacity to host aquatic championships.

"A facility such as the upgraded War Memorial Pool will allow us to host teams preparing for international events, along with national amateur events.

“A heated pool open all year will also help foster an active lifestyle for all age groups.”

Funding for the project has come from a Federal Government Economic Stimulus Plan grant of $1.248 million (less GST), plus $850,000 from the Coffs Coast State Park Trust and funds and in-kind support from Coffs Harbour City Council worth $630,000.

In addition, a further $750,000 has been provided for the pool refurbishment through the generous donation of Barbara and the late Allen Hogbin.

The upgrade will include:

• Construction of an enclosed heated 25m six-lane wet deck pool with teaching ledge and disabled access ramp, with heating of up to 30 degrees;

• Installation of a zero-depth kiddies “splash pad” with interactive water toy equipment and soft fall surface;

• Renovation of the 50-metre pool to FINA dimensions, allowing for wet deck gutters on both sides and dimensional allowance for timing pads;

• Installation of a new water treatment plant compliant to NSW Health requirements for pool turnover rates;

• Renovation of the existing plant room;

• Refurbishment of the existing balance tank.