City of Newcastle councillors will again consider whether to seek ministerial consent for a five-year lease of a food and drink premises at the Newcastle Ocean Baths, with a five-year extension option. The decision was deferred in April pending the swearing-in of new lord mayor Gavin Morris.
Almost all public submissions on the proposed lease objected to the plan, citing concerns over commercialisation and alcohol. The council cannot grant the lease without the minister's consent if objections are received.
A council report states the lease would support public use and enjoyment of the baths, noting that the broader pavilion remains predominantly allocated to public amenities, lifeguard functions, and community space. It would also contribute toward the estimated $830,000 annual maintenance cost of the baths over 30 years.
The report highlights that a commercial offering has operated at the baths almost continuously since 1922, with the previous tenancy generating $33,004 in annual rental income. Failure to secure ministerial consent could delay activation of the renewed pavilion and reduce visitor amenity.
Friends of Newcastle Ocean Baths president Peter Wickham said the number of objections reflected a clear community position against the proposal. If consent is granted, the council will undertake an expression of interest process to find a suitable operator, with any alcohol sales requiring a separate liquor licence.
Councillors are expected to make a decision on the application on Tuesday.
