What's on the other side of the gate? Adding a step will require resurfacing for a distance back from the gate. Will this heavy gate self close? It may actually be easier and more effective to have a fixed panel and a smaller gate. Also consider that you will be able to have a gap of up to 100mm below the gate. This will allow it to swing up the slope. If you decide on the step, consider that the horizontal on your current gate may still render it illegal if it's less than 900mm off the ground and the gaps between the vertical timbers are greater than 10mm. If it's more than 900 off the ground it will be OK.

Class P is found in approximately 70% of building sites in Australia, and it means "problem sites". If you are building on a Class P site you will need to consult a structural engineer. Read more about site classifications and movement based on soil reactivity

Thanks for this helpful guide! I especially agree when it comes to always getting a professional to drain your pool, especially when you have a vinyl pool liner.

We had a similar scenario with a recent project, but the design options were limited due to size. The solution involved incorporating a raised retained narrow garden bed that doubles as underpinning to the neighbouring building, which floor level is about a metre higher. The photo below is from a couple of years ago upon completion, but that side boundary wall is now fully covered with climbing fig and has become a feature green wall outlook for the interior spaces. It works here because the pool is a lap pool. If you have the option to keep the pool off the boundary it is always the better way to do. At the very least have some form of ledge or buffer and potentially stagger/layer the treatment of the boundary to soften the impacts of the wall height that otherwise would be imposing and stark. Best of luck PD :) www.pauldistefanodesign.com