The finer details of plans for the next stage of restoration works at Newcastle Ocean Baths have been revealed.
City of Newcastle has lodged a new development application (DA) for the multimillion-dollar project, starting the clock on submissions from the public.
Community members have from August 27 until September 24 to voice their opinions on the revised design.
A Statement of Environmental Effects (SEE) lodged with the plans said the project provides an opportunity to "renew" the baths in a way that is sensitive to its historic, aesthetic and social significance.
"The proposed development will generate positive impacts on the local economy by encouraging higher visitation from local residents and tourists," the SEE said.
"The Newcastle Ocean Baths is an iconic and well-known community facility and its revitalisation will form a key part of the continuing growth of Newcastle's tourist and visitor economy."
The revised plans are estimated to cost $43 million, excluding GST, and include key changes to the layout and location of the amenities, roof design and retention of heritage elements.
The former wave-form roof design of the northern pavilion has been replaced with a glazed finish that "floats" about a metre above the original building.
The cafe or restaurant, which has been the subject of conflict between the council and community, is proposed to operate from 5am to midnight Thursday to Saturday and 5am to 10pm Sunday to Wednesday.
Midnight trade at the cafe was included in the original proposal, but opening times have shifted one hour earlier, which the Newcastle Herald understands is in response to community feedback.
Almost all public submissions objected to the original plan, raising concerns about commercialisation and alcohol.
If approved, the cafe could house a maximum of 100 customers, would employ 20 staff and sit beside the community space which has room for up to 50 people.
The originally proposed roof terrace above the cafe has now been removed from the amended design.
The SEE said the cafe and community facility will not significantly change the original and overarching purpose of the baths as a public recreation space.
"The cafe and community space are, in comparison to the bathing facilities, modestly sized and appropriately located separate to the baths and change facilities, to enable a clear distinction of uses," the SEE said.
"Night-time trading will provide an additional level of passive surveillance for the pools, which is a positive safety and CPTED (Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design) outcome."
As the proposed works will exceed $5 million, the application will be determined by the Hunter and Central Coast Regional Planning Panel.
A separate approval will be required under the Heritage Act.
The SEE said the revised design is in the public interest as it maintains community access and enjoyment, improves functionality and accessibility and creates opportunity for social connection through the restaurant and community spaces.
"It will contribute to the overall enhancement of the Newcastle foreshore, improving the quality and appeal of this important public space," the SEE said.
"No adverse environmental, social, or economic impacts will result from the proposal which are unable to be mitigated through suitable conditions of development consent."
The council worked with heritage specialists, independent design reviewers and technical professionals in revising the design.
If the plan is approved, the council will move into the detailed design stage before awarding a tender for construction in mid-2028.
To make a submission, visit the council's website.
