Council says its staff are excitedly preparing to reopen outdoor pools after the announcement from the NSW State Government last week but Shoalhaven Council Ward One candidate Serena Copley has questioned why "all outdoor pools across the region weren't open this week?"

"Council had over a week's notice from the NSW Government that outdoor pools would be able to open however both the Bomaderry and Nowra pools remain closed," Ms Copley said.

"This is really disappointing for local residents who for so long have been waiting for additional freedoms in this extended lockdown.

"So many residents use our pools for exercise and recreation so to find them closed on the day they should be open is a massive failure from Shoalhaven City Council. Particularly during school holidays, parents are craving activities for their kids, it's simply not good enough they have to wait because council failed to plan properly."

In a statement on its website, council said Nowra Aquatic Park, as well as the outdoor pools at the Ulladulla Leisure Centre and Bomaderry Aquatic Centre were planning to reopen and return to their normal opening hours in time for the long weekend.

Mayor Amanda Findley said the council's decision to reopen outdoor pools in time for the long weekend allowed staff time to prepare.

"Public Health Orders in relation to COVID-safe plans in our facilities and restrictions on public gatherings remain," Cr Findley said.

"Staff are busy cleaning, training, and ensuring that our outdoor pools will be a safe place for outdoor exercise and recreation.

"We ask residents visiting council's pools to please comply with both written and verbal instructions.

"With the Public Health Orders changing often, it can be confusing, and we are urging everyone to do the right thing."

Cr Findley said operating pools in accordance with NSW Health guidelines requires additional safety measures at each facility.

"This increased demand has meant the reopening of all our outdoor pools must be done carefully and in a staged process," she said.

"I encourage everyone to read information on the COVID measures in place before your visit our facilities and follow council's website for more updates.

"Council's staff are focused on reopening as soon as possible and I thank residents for their patience and cooperation during this challenging time."

Ms Copley said she was aware "council has informed locals that the Nowra Pool will be ready in time for the long weekend, and while this isn't that far away, it's more pain and waiting that Shoalhaven residents don't need right now".

"Council need to step up their game and get back to basics. Pools are core Council business so why aren't they ready to go?" she said

She called on council to move the opening of the Bomaderry and Nowra outdoor pools immediately or explain why they aren't open.

All sea pools remain open; however, all indoor pools and gyms remain closed until further notice in accordance with the Public Health Order.

Public holiday hours for Monday, October 4 2021:

Bomaderry Aquatic Centre (outdoor pool): 12pm-4pm

Nowra Aquatic Park: 11am-3pm

Ulladulla Leisure Centre (outdoor pool): 8am-12pm

Monday - Friday:

Bomaderry Aquatic Centre (outdoor pool): 6am-4pm

Nowra Aquatic Park: 6am-4pm

Ulladulla Leisure Centre (outdoor pool): 6am-4pm

Saturday / Sunday:

Bomaderry Aquatic Centre (outdoor pool) - Saturday: 11am-4pm

Bomaderry Aquatic Centre (outdoor pool) - Sunday: 12pm-4pm

Nowra Aquatic Park: 11am-3pm

Ulladulla Leisure Centre (outdoor pool): 8am-12pm

Outdoor pools will operate under operational changes set by NSW Health to protect you, your family and staff.

Please do not enter the facility if you are unwell or experiencing any cold and flu symptoms.

All patrons must check in and out when entering and leaving the facility and please present to staff when requested.

Masks are required at all times when not exercising in the pool, including when entering and exiting the facility.

If you have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19 you may enter the facility and gather in a group of five (over 12 years of age).

If you have not been fully vaccinated against COVID-19 you may enter the facility and gather in groups of two (over 12 years of age).

Remember to practice social distancing and remain remain 1.5m from other patrons at all times.

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