Pool completion slides to June 2025, cost variations still in dispute

18 February 2025

The redevelopment of the North Sydney Olympic Pool has been delayed again, with contractor Icon forecasting completion in June 2025, a month later than previous forecasts and 11 months behind the revised contracted date of July 2024. The project, which began in March 2021, remains within its revised $122m total forecast cost, though additional variation claims are expected.

Icon has submitted multiple claims for extensions of yime related to the structural steel roof over the 25m indoor pool. Disputes over these claims have gone to mediation. An adjudicator ruled against some of Icon’s cost claims for rectification work on the roof, but the contractor continues to cite delays.

Since December 2024, Icon has submitted four new EoT claims. Council rejected three, and the fourth is under assessment. The project has recorded 1,746 Requests for Information, with 37 still outstanding. Council expects variation claims to continue until completion due to design and contractual issues.

Recent construction progress includes the completion of level 4 zinc cladding and tiling in amenities. Structural steel columns for the lower roof over the grandstand are being installed, and offsite fabrication of the main entrance steelwork has started.

The revised construction contract sum is $91.74m, incorporating $173,000 in recently agreed variations. Council is reviewing further confidential details regarding variation claims and financial adjustments.

Council said it continues to focus on addressing quality and compliance issues to ensure the facility meets required standards.