Andrew (Boy) Charlton Pool – a long-time favourite of Sydney’s gay community – is set to welcome swimmers again in early September after 16 months of critical maintenance work.
The pool announced on Instagram on Friday it will reopen at 6am on Monday, September 1, the first day of spring. Managed by Belgravia Leisure for the City of Sydney, it has been closed since May 1, 2024.
Set on Woolloomooloo Bay near the Royal Botanic Garden, the harbourside pool is known for its sun-drenched deck, views of Sydney Harbour and devoted following from Sydney’s gay community.
Its extended closure left many regulars seeking alternatives such as Prince Alfred Park Pool, Murray Rose Pool (Redleaf Pool), Seven Shillings Beach or the indoor Cook + Phillip Park Pool in the CBD.
What has been upgraded at Andrew (Boy) Charlton Pool?
The upgrades included new tiling and waterproof membranes, a refurbished pool deck and seating, a new lift, plant room improvements, and the replacement of gas boilers with electric heat pumps as part of the City of Sydney’s goal to reach net zero emissions by 2035.
When the shutdown was first announced, City of Sydney Lord Mayor Clover Moore defended its length, saying it was necessary to ensure a world-class facility.
But some feared it could turn into another drawn-out project like the trouble-plagued North Sydney Olympic Pool – with even Liberal City of Sydney councillor Lyndon Gannon at the time saying: “I can feel it in my waters that this will turn into another North Sydney Pool fiasco.”
About two weeks ago on August 1, the City of Sydney assured Gay Sydney News that the closure that work was progressing on schedule, but did not confirm the exact reopening date.
Lap swimming will be available, and Sydneysiders can check lane availability in real time using an online tool.
Adult entry will cost $7.90, and concession entry $5.90. The City of Sydney is still assessing whether it can offer free entry for all in the future.
The pool will remain open until the end of April 2026, when it closes for its usual winter break.
Eliot Hastie is a senior news producer at Channel Ten, reporting on a range of general stories, specialising in foreign affairs and LGBTQ+ stories. He’s also a reporter for Gay Sydney News, where he covers LGBTQIA+ culture, politics and nightlife. He previously helped to build and launch ausbiz, Australia's only live streaming finance news channel, where he was also an executive producer and host. He has previously worked as a finance and business journalist for publications including Fintech Business, Real Estate Business and other Momentum Media titles. Eliot holds a journalism degree from the University of Westminster and brings experience in both broadcast and digital reporting. Contact Eliot: eliot.hastie@gaysydneynews.com.au
