The city of Sydney has more ocean pools than any other in the world, and residents love them. But one iconic swim spot is getting a much-debated upgrade, and critics say the money spent on it will leave no room for other improvements to the city’s waterways and beaches.

The North Sydney Olympic pool was built in 1936 as part of the Glebe Foreshore, a series of walkable parks connecting Bicentennial Park with the popular fish market. The site has an impressive history, including a stint as a swimming arena for the Olympics, and it was later refurbished into a public pool. Now, it’s being replaced by a modern facility designed to attract tourists and visitors. The new pool will occupy sites in Beare Park, Pirrama Park, and the Glebe Foreshore—and is expected to become the city’s second-largest aquatics facility, according to local architect ABA. The construction details were not available as of press time, but the project will cost an estimated $100 million.

Despite its shabby appearance, the pool has retained its old-school charm and is beloved by locals. The water is warm enough to swim comfortably, though it’s a bit cooler than you might expect from an ocean pool in the middle of winter. The 10-lane pool has sparkling white tiles and the kind of cement that leaves wet footprints, and it’s surrounded by large yellow umbrellas and plenty of seating. And if you’re worried about slipping on the tiled bottom, you can always slip in a pair of old flip-flops.

But the shady swimming hole has some enemies. A group called Keep Our Pools Alive is campaigning to keep the pool as-is and warns of dire consequences if it gets the makeover. They argue the $10 million grant, which was meant for regional and remote women’s sports, should have been used to improve existing facilities instead of reopening a disused inner-city pool.

The group has already launched a petition and has received more than 1,500 signatures. Its members are urging council to spend the funds on other projects, such as improving beaches and upgrading public transport infrastructure. They also want to see the money spent on more community programs, such as youth and cultural activities.

While the future of the sdy pools is up in the air, the city’s other iconic waterways are safe and ready for swimmers. In fact, the city’s public pools have helped shape Australia’s national identity as a sporty, beachy, and outdoor-oriented country. In addition to the ocean pools, Sydney has a number of other unique and historic swimming spots, including this corrugated iron and brick pavilion tucked beneath Balmain’s sandstone cliffs. It’s known as the “Elkington Park Pool” and is named for an Olympic champ who trained here in 1883. It’s now a popular spot for locals looking to escape from the hot summer sun. The city also has six outstanding aquatic centres.