Published on Monday, 23 December 2024 at 7:32:35 AM
The Council adopted a revised Master Plan and Preliminary Design Plan for the Mount Barker Swimming Pool redevelopment at the December Council meeting.
Stage 1B comprises a learn to swim pool, splash pool, new plant, filtration, water treatment infrastructure and heating, and minor landscaping. Stage 2 comprises a new 50-metre pool.
Highlights of the new Master Plan include:
- A realigned 50-metre pool to improve lifeguards’ visibility,
- Relocated equipment store to expand storage options and provide a wind break from south-westerly winds,
- Realigned shade structures to improve functionality,
- Relocated plant room and chemical storage to increase capacity,
- Extended carparking,
- Extending the site into the area north of the current site,
- An underwater ledge in the learn to swim pool to cater to hydrotherapy exercises, and for children to sit on during swimming lessons to stay semi-submerged, and
- A future development site intended for ‘dry land’ activities to encourage all day visitation to the pool. This site will be planned and developed following the completion of Stages 1B and 2.
Shire President Len Handasyde said the Council endorsed a concept plan for Stage 1B in December 2023.
“At that time, the Council resolved to progress to the detailed design phase for Stage 1B, including any refurbishment required for the 50m pool,” Cr Handasyde said.
“Further investigation was necessary to determine the 50m pool’s structural integrity, with concrete core sampling and ground penetrating radar testing completed in April.”
“A report detailing the 50m pool’s condition was received by the Council at the September meeting, which unfortunately showed the pool floor is in poor condition and only has a lifespan of up to seven years in its current condition.”
“That led the Council to this revised master plan and preliminary design plan.”
Cr Handasyde said pool designers and builders recommended progressing Stages 1B and 2 as a single construction project to minimise cost increases and the likelihood the pool would close to the public over multiple swimming seasons.
“Delayed action may lead to the complete closure of the 50m pool, which would be a significant loss for the community,” Cr Handasyde said.
“The Master Plan and Preliminary Design Plan aims to maximise the use of all aquatic spaces, streamline construction costs where possible, and provide infrastructure to meet community needs for the next 60-plus year lifespan of the facility.”
“This project will now progress to detailed design planning, accurate costings to provide the Council with a total redevelopment cost, and the production of a construction tender document.”
Digital copies of the Mount Barker Swimming Pool – Revised Master Plan and Preliminary Design 2024 are available on the Shire website. Hard copies can be requested at the Admin Centre.
For further information, contact the Admin Centre on 08 9892 1111.
Back to All News