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In a bid to offset rapidly increasing construction costs, Surf Coast Shire Council has advised that it will pursue “a new scope” for its planned Surf Coast Aquatic and Health Centre.

The Council, which has already received funding commitments of $23.5 million from the Federal and Victorian Governments, has resolved to continue with detailed design while concurrently pursuing additional funding from the two levels of government.

Advising that the new scope will bring project cost closer to the original budget of $39.25 million but the new design would still require additional funding, Surf Coast Shire Council Mayor, Libby Stapleton stated “more money is needed to make this happen. Construction costs are increasing by $300,000 per month so it is important that Council acts now.

“Our community expects us to be financially responsible. Equally, we’re doing all we can to deliver an aquatic and health centre because we know it’s been a long held community ambition.

“We know there are already more than 1000 children that will need a local, learn-to-swim option when the privately run Torquay swim school closes at the end of the year and this number will only increase into the future. With a growing, active and ageing community, we also know the need for health (including hydrotherapy), leisure and fitness options will continue to increase,” she said.

While preparing detailed design Council will continue to pursue government funding opportunities including the potential for the centre to serve as a Commonwealth Games training venue.

The new design includes two warm water indoor pools for learn to swim, hydrotherapy and leisure and a 25 metre outdoor pool which would be designed so it could be enclosed at a future date.

Mayor Stapleton added “the additional funding we may be able to secure from the state and federal governments, will determine whether the rescoped project includes a 25 metre or 50 metre outdoor pool.

“The most sustainable and financially responsible option as of now is two indoor warm water pools and a 25m outdoor pool. This model is informed by the cost of construction, on-going operational costs, environmental impact and anticipated user demand.

“Gym and allied health spaces are included as they are important to the appeal of the centre as a ‘one-stop-shop’ and they generate significant income to help offset the costs of the aquatic components, which are expensive to operate.

“The latest, most environmentally friendly pools are not heated by gas, so we will also be seeking funding to make the facility fully electric.”

In November last year the Council awarded the design tender for the Centre to Melbourne-based architects Peddle Thorp.

In addition to the Council’s $5.75 million commitment to the Centre the Federal Government is committing $20 million and the Victorian Government $13.5 million to the project.

In addition to the Council’s $5.75 million commitment to the Centre the Federal Government is committing $20 million and the Victorian Government $13.5 million to the project.

Image courtesy of Zoggs.

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