Building works are now 50
per cent complete on the first stage of the North Bellarine Aquatic Centre in
Drysdale.
Work on the stage one
project began in May and more than 2,200 cubic metres of soil have been
excavated to create the new pool shell.
The pool shell is being cured and strengthened over 28 days before hydrostatic
testing can start. The process
involves filling the pool shell with water and testing for any leaks.
Crews have also
completed the entry pavilion and structural steel roof, along with the changerooms
walls.
The facility has been
designed for whole of community use, including swimming carnivals, learn to
swim and various aquatic programs.
The facility will
include an eight-lane pool, all abilities change facilities, an entry pavilion,
a kiosk, tiered covered seating, and landscaped community lawn area with
umbrellas.
Sustainability is a key
priority, and the facility will be powered using a 16kw solar system. The City
team will also plant more than 100 trees, and deliver carparking for 60 cars
plus two electric vehicle charging stations.
The concept plans for the outdoor
pool that were endorsed by Council in April 2021 allow for the project to be
delivered in stages, including a complementary indoor facility.
The City of Greater Geelong has an election commitment of $20 million
from the Victorian Government in addition to the Federal Government’s
commitment of $20 million towards stage two of the North Bellarine Aquatic
Centre.
Greater Geelong residents are invited to apply for a position on the new
Community Advisory Panel that will help identify several design options for the
second stage of the aquatic centre.
Residents are encouraged to consider joining the 12-member panel, which
will help provide a community perspective on the design options for the second
stage of the aquatic centre.
Applications for the volunteer panel close at 9am on Monday 19 December 2022.
Mayor Trent Sullivan
We’re proud to reach
this important milestone on our long-term plan to provide better aquatic
facilities for residents on The Bellarine. The contractor is employing 60 people over the
life of the project with many staff, subcontractors and suppliers living in
Greater Geelong. We’re proud that tradies are on site building better
facilities for our community and supporting local businesses.
Federal Member for
Corangamite Libby Coker
It is pleasing to see that the construction of the outdoor pool is well
underway. What is just as pleasing is, now that the Federal and State
Government have committed $40 Million in funding, we can deliver an indoor
aquatic facility that addresses the community need for rehabilitation, warm
water exercise, learn to swim and indoor lap swimming. It is an exciting time.
Bellarine Ward
Councillor, Stephanie Asher
This is such an exciting project for the local community and for the schools
that sit alongside the pool site. It’s all about delivering what was missing on
The Bellarine and building what we’ve promised. Locals are thrilled that they
will no longer have to travel 30 minutes for a 50-metre pool.
Bellarine Ward Councillor,
Jim Mason
A big thanks to
everyone who has supported our push for more aquatic facilities on The
Bellarine. I expect there will be plenty of community members ready to jump in
when the pool opens.