Whilst “design and construct” is a common delivery method for Crystal Pools, the concept of building a major (albeit Stage 1) aquatic development in Broken Hill presented Crystal Pools with a range of challenges and daunting logistical issues.
Broken Hill is a truly vibrant and culturally rich city known as the ‘Silver City’. Nevertheless, it is located in the centre of the sparsely populated outback of Western NSW, close to the SA border. The decision to redevelop and revitalise the original 1937 pool complex was made after very careful research and master planning. This was expertly provided by the Town Council and their appointed architects.
Based on Crystal’s experience with many similar projects, the first step was to assemble a strong project team with the necessary expertise and commitment to satisfy Council’s high expectations.
Our very first appointment was Geoff Ninnes Fong & Partners (GNFP) who designed the water retaining structures and the Pool Water Treatment (PWT) Plant. Closely after this, Crystal appointed Trisley Hydraulic Services Pty Ltd to supply and install an appropriate PWT plant.
Based on Crystal’s policy of using local resources, wherever possible, they also appointed Timperio Enterprises Pty Ltd (a local Broken Hill contractor) for the construction of the PWT plant room, the gas containment room and other associated building works.
Stemming from Councils consideration of all available pool options, a reinforced formed and poured pool construction was selected due to its unique cost effectiveness and it proven longevity.
The soiled water gutters on both pools were set on generous grade to operate in accordance with open-trench drainage. This method is widely considered preferable because of its efficiency and its ability to collect the total plant flow over the full length of the gutter. This construction method also precluded the need for any soiled water piping, which would have otherwise been installed external of the water retaining structure. A prefabricated panel type pool would not have provided the same benefits.
The construction of significant swimming pools in remote locations relies heavily upon applied experience that firstly establishes a workable cost plan. Next comes a robust design and committed project team who must understand and respects the Client’s needs and aspirations. Although the delivery of large swimming pools in regional areas is never easy, the North Broken Hill Pool is now blessed with a new 8 Lane x 50m (FINA compliant) competition pool and an exciting new water slide.
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