By JESSE GRAHAM
A NEW pool for the Yarra Valley is closer to becoming a reality, after a feasibility study on a new centre received unanimous support from councillors.
A feasibility study on a new Yarra Ranges Aquatic Centre was unanimously accepted by councillors at the 9 September Yarra Ranges Council meeting.
As a result, the study, which puts forward a number of options for a new pool in the Healesville area, will be used in a review of the municipality’s aquatics strategy next year.
Mayor Fiona McAllister said the pool would service a much broader catchment than just the town it was in, and would replace the deteriorating Jack Hort Memorial Indoor Pool and Healesville Outdoor Pool.
“The two pools are ageing, and have a maximum life of 10 years,” she said.
“We’re not anticipating that we’ll be opening the doors (to the new facility) in 12 months, but we can’t leave any decisions on any of our pools until the last minute,” she said.
The feasibility study discussed four proposals for a facility in the area, including a $30 million, $20 million and $15 million centre, along with an option to continue using the older pools, which would cost about $10 million in repairs and redevelopment works.
A number of locations are assessed as part of the study, with Queens Park designated the most ideal area for the new facility to be constructed.
However, Cr McAllister said the study was one of the most preliminary stages for the pool, and that it was important for residents to look through the study themselves, and have a say as part of the aquatics strategy review.
The council will also be advocating for state and Federal Government funding for the project, particularly in the lead-up to the 29 November State Election.
Councillor Jim Child supported the council motion to use the study in the aquatics strategy review, which will map out the future of the shire’s pools to 2025.
He said there would be a ‘tremendous’ amount of schools in the area that could use the pool in future for their aquatic programs.
The motion passed unopposed.
To view the full study, visit www.yarraranges.vic.gov.au.
