Important upgrade works at Cooktown Swimming Pool will begin on Friday 24 July 2026, requiring the pool to close temporarily.
The first stage will involve upgrading the pool’s chlorination system. Subject to the works progressing as planned and the system being successfully tested and commissioned, the pool is expected to reopen around Saturday 8 August 2026.
The pool may then reopen for approximately one to two weeks before closing again for the second stage of works, which will involve repainting the pool surface.
The dates for the painting works have not yet been confirmed.
We know the pool is an important part of the weekly routine for local swimmers, families, clubs and community groups. While two separate closures are not the ideal outcome, both upgrades are needed and Council is sharing the available information as early as possible to help the community plan ahead.
- Stage one: Chlorination system upgrade
The pool will close from: Friday 24 July 2026
The pool is currently expected to reopen around: Saturday 8 August 2026
This date remains subject to the successful completion, testing and commissioning of the new chlorination system.
- Stage two: Pool surface painting
Following a temporary reopening, the pool will need to close again for approximately 3 weeks while the pool surface is repainted.
The painting dates are still being confirmed and will be shared as soon as they are available.
Activities affected
During each closure:
- Learn to Swim classes will not operate
- Aqua Aerobics and hydrotherapy sessions will not operate
- swimming club activities will be paused
- regular pool bookings will be cancelled
- there will be no public access to the pool
Affected participants, clubs and regular user groups will be contacted directly where required.
Council will provide updates throughout both stages of the project and confirm each reopening and closure date as soon as possible.
For updates, visit www.cook.ald.gov.au or follow Cook Shire Council on Facebook.
For enquiries, contact us by calling 4082 0500 or emailing mail@cook.qld.gov.au
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Why will the pool close twice?
The chlorination system upgrade and pool surface painting are separate projects being scheduled by the Queensland Department of Education.
The works involve different contractors and could not be coordinated into one continuous closure. While two closures are not the ideal outcome, both projects are important and need to be completed.
Council will continue to provide the community with as much notice as possible as confirmed dates are received.
When is the first closure?
Cooktown Swimming Pool will close from Friday 24 July 2026 for the chlorination system upgrade.
When will the pool reopen?
Subject to the works progressing as planned and the new system being successfully tested and commissioned, the pool is expected to reopen around Saturday 8 August 2026.
Council will confirm the reopening date before the pool opens to the public.
How long will the pool remain open?
The pool may reopen for approximately one to two weeks before closing again for painting.
The exact timing will depend on when the painting works are scheduled.
When will the painting closure begin?
The dates for the pool surface painting have not yet been confirmed.
Council will provide as much notice as possible once the schedule is known.
How long will the painting take?
The painting closure is expected to last approximately 2-3 weeks, subject to the confirmed scope, weather and progress of the works.
Why are these works needed?
The upgrades will replace the pool’s chlorination system and refresh the pool surface, supporting the ongoing operation and condition of this important community facility.
Will Learn to Swim continue?
Learn to Swim classes will not operate while the pool is closed.
Affected families will be contacted directly about arrangements for unused lessons.
What happens to monthly passes?
Monthly passes will be extended from the final reopening date for a period no less than the combined duration of the closures.
Pass holders will not lose paid access time and do not need to take any action.
Will clubs and regular user groups have access?
No. Swimming clubs, hydrotherapy participants and other regular user groups will be unable to access the pool during each closure.
Affected groups will be contacted directly.
Could the dates change?
Yes. The reopening date for the chlorination works depends on the successful completion, testing and commissioning of the new system.
The painting schedule may also change due to contractor availability, weather or unforeseen site conditions.
Council will communicate any changes as soon as possible.
Who is managing the upgrade works?
Cooktown Swimming Pool is owned by the Queensland Department of Education and operated by Cook Shire Council.
The Department of Education is arranging the contractors and scheduling the chlorination and painting works. Council is responsible for operating the pool and keeping the community informed as dates and project updates are provided.
Because the two projects involve separate contractors and schedules, Council may not receive final commencement dates well in advance. We will share confirmed information with the community as soon as it becomes available.