Darwin council has awarded Halikos Group with the $25 million contract to redevelop the Casuarina pool which will close at the end of the month for at least a year, while construction takes place to transform it into the “Casuarina Aquatic and Leisure Centre”.

The new facility will see three shaded pools, including an eight-lane 50 metre lap pool, a 25 metre learn-to-swim pool and a resort-style lagoon. It will also include wet and dry play areas, a cafe, barbecue facilities and a basketball court.

“What we are planning here is more than a pool,” said Lord Mayor Kon Vatskalis. “It’s a leisure experience where families can escape the heat and comfortably enjoy time together in Darwin’s beautiful tropical outdoors.

“This facility is 40-plus years-old, it’s served its age.

“The brand new one is going to bring millions to the Darwin economy and a lot of jobs but most importantly, a new facility for Darwin that will last many, many years.”

The new facility was first flagged two years ago and is part of a record spend by council on new projects in the latest budget.

Local architect firm Ashford Group won the tender to develop the draft masterplan that was sent out for community feedback in September 2020.

Mr Vatskalis said the project has taken a while because council had to “sign certain things” and “go out and borrow the money”.

The Federal Government has also committed $7.5 million towards the project.

Mr Vatskalis said on Mix 104.9 that four tenderers had bid on the project.

“We looked carefully to all three of them and we decided we’re not going to spend anymore money – $25 million is the cut off and we will deliver $25 million in the northern suburbs,” he said.

He added that he was told Halikos Group was the best option.

“I’m told, because elected members don’t take part in the allocation of tenders, it’s actually done all by officers,” he said. “They came to council and put it before council and elected members decide.”

Halikos Group said they were “very proud to be part of bringing an iconic upgrade to the Territory”.

The pool will close on September 30 and is expected to open late next year but no firm date was provided. Mr Vatskalis said swimming clubs and others would be able to use public pools at Nightcliff and Parap while construction is underway.