Allen Jack+Cottier’s design of a new aquatic and fitness centre in the Lower Blue Mountains suburb of Springwood, about two hours west of Sydney, continues the firm’s tradition of designing sporting facilities that are a focus for community life. With below zero temperatures in winter, and only a single indoor and five outdoor pools for the whole area, the Mountains community was desperately in need of a new indoor facility. This new swimming complex replaces an old outside pool. It includes lap, leisure and program pools, as well as a children’s play area and waterslide, spa, gymnasium, aerobics room, change rooms, café, childcare facility and administrative offices.