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The City of Greater Bendigo has released the final 'schematic plans' for what it refers to as its "number one priority project" the Greater Bendigo Indoor Aquatic Leisure and Wellbeing Centre.

Plans for the currently unfunded facility were released this week, with the architectural concepts undertaken by Peddle Thorp Architects.

However, while the City has already undertaken a Municipal Aquatic Strategy, business case, detailed site and traffic analysis, an archaeological dig of the site and obtained endorsement from the Victorian Office of the Government Architect, the project remains unfunded.

Following the release of the final plans, Bendigo Mayor Barry Lyons now expects that a planning permit application will be lodged before the end of February.

Mayor Lyons explains "this is an exciting next step towards the project becoming ' shovel ready', which enhances our case for funding from the State and Federal Governments.

"The plans feature an eight-lane 50 metre swimming pool, hydrotherapy warm water pool and spa, children's splash play and learn to swim pool, gymnasium, Wellness Centre, change rooms and short-stay childcare facilities.

"The plans give a clear indication of how the facility will be built and how it will appear in the Kangaroo Flat streetscape.

"The new centre will be a 21st Century facility in design and concept and will be an important recreation and economic asset for Greater Bendigo."

Business studies undertaken on behalf of the Council suggest that the facility will attract more than 430,000 visits in its early years of operation. The Centre's accessible location off the Calder Highway and along prominent walking and cycling paths are also expected to contribute to resident's overall wellbeing and encourage them to lead healthy and active lives.

To ensure the centre can serve the local and wider community for years to come, the City has worked closely with a group of residents from a range of sectors. The Community Reference Group has been fundamental in ensuring that the community's opinion is represented.

Acknowledging the community input, City of Greater Bendigo acting Chief Executive Stan Liacos added "this is one of the most important projects Council has agreed to and the benefits for the community will be long lasting.

"That is why it is so important to have a Community Reference Group and its role is not finished, as it will continue to assist in making a case for government funding and be a voice for the community throughout the entire building process."

Plans to develop the facility resulted from a Council study into the Bendigo's aquatic facilities which found that current aquatic facilities are inadequate for the future needs of residents, due to rapid population growth and the needs of an ageing population.

Click here for more information on the project.

A YouTube video of the development by Peddle Thorp Melbourne can be viewed at www.youtube.com/watch?v=n_4hzRu-Iqk

21st June 2012 - DESIGN WORK TO BEGIN FOR KANGAROO FLAT AQUATIC FACILITY

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