Council will now maintain the existing outdoor pool, and will incorporate a 50m pool and swimming complex into the Shoalhaven Sporting Complex master plan.

The motion to keep the pool was carried unanimously at a council meeting on Tuesday night.

Mayor Amanda Findley told councillors she had been backed into a corner on the decision.

Kiama MP Gareth Ward had told council he would not fight for grants for the $70 million precinct unless they kept the pool.

This threat, and the strong show of community support for the pool, drove half of the gallery to change their minds on the matter.

“It is clear that our local state MP's and our community do not support the proposal in its current form,” Cr Findley said.

“Council has therefore chosen to head in a direction that supports the needs of our community and which all councillors also support.”

A number of councillors thanked the mayor for her change of heart.

"I think it's great council's about to change its mind," Cr Greg Watson said.

"Out of this whole exercise should be an apology to the Bomaderry community for not taking them along in the decision making."

Council will apply for sporting grants for the construction of the facility. 

The recommendation states that council will work alongside the Athletics Club to investigate an alternative site for a new facility with a commitment to fund works and seek grant funds in the short term. 

Funding of up to $300,000 will be provided in the 2018/19 budget for project scoping, consultation and design work with a view to delivering a plan that will be construction ready by 2020.

Council will also advise the Croquet Club that it may continue to remain in its current location and to proceed with its expansion plan.

A further report will be provided back to Council on funding options for the croquet facility.

The Indoor Sports Centre construction is currently under way and will continue.

All stakeholders and sporting associations will be contacted about the decision and kept updated.