Hawkesbury City Council will seek NSW Government approval to redirect about $5.66 million in unused Oasis upgrade funding to Richmond Swimming Centre as it moves to end the grant agreement for the financially unviable project.
All 12 councillors supported the decision at the October 13 meeting, backing negotiations to mutually terminate the Oasis Aquatic and Leisure Centre Improvements funding deed and request that its remaining allocation stay in the Hawkesbury.
The proposed transfer would require state approval. Council’s resolution expressly separates the request from its decision to seek termination, meaning the Oasis agreement could be closed even if the money is not redirected to Richmond.
The report presented to councillors puts the August 2026 estimate for the full developed Oasis project at $21.484 million, excluding GST.
That is $14.768 million above the $6.716 million Western Sydney Infrastructure Grants allocation. Council had not approved a contribution of its own to bridge the gap.
After allowing for forecast eligible spending and close-out costs, the report identifies approximately $5.66 million as potentially available for Richmond.
However, officers advise that the request should be for the remaining balance after reconciliation, rather than a fixed sum. Any transfer would be at the Department’s discretion and require changes to Richmond’s funding arrangements.
The proposal comes as Richmond faces its own substantial financing requirement.
Council’s April announcement put that redevelopment’s preliminary cost at $73.4 million against a $30.3 million state grant, leaving approximately $43.1 million to be met through other financing or additional grants.
The Gazette has previously reported on Richmond’s proposed borrowing requirement.
Officers argue that redirecting the Oasis balance would retain the funding’s benefit locally, support similar aquatic and community outcomes, and reduce Richmond’s financing and interest costs.
The adopted resolution authorises General Manager Will Barton to negotiate the Oasis termination and close-out arrangements, subject to legal advice and satisfactory financial reconciliation.
The report assumes no financial benefit from the proposed Richmond transfer until approval is received.
Previous Gazette coverage
- Council set to borrow up to $43 million for Richmond Swimming Pool renovation — 18 April 2026
- Council criticised over “fake news” pool post — 5 May 2026
- Hawkesbury Council Debt Tops $54.8 Million — 28 July 2026
