Published on Thursday, 18 January 2024 at 10:36:48 AM
Mount Barker Memorial Swimming Pool development got the green light at the December Council meeting, with plans approved for two new pool areas, extra shade and in-built water play equipment.
Shire President Cr Len Handasyde said Council’s goal was to further develop an engaging, safe water space for all members of the community.
“The concept plans endorsed by Council reflect the community’s needs, clearly demonstrated to us during the consultation stages of this project carried out in 2019,” Cr Handasyde said.
Two new pool areas will be built – a splash pool and learn to swim pool. The splash pool will provide a special space for babies through to young children and include a range of water play features such as a spray tunnel and tipping bucket.
The learn-to-swim pool has been designed for people new to swimming and will feature a walking/exercise lane for those seeking water therapy. It will also be accessible by ramp.
Retractable shade sails and a ‘funbrella’ will be installed across pool areas, with fixed shading for the toddler pool.
The 50m pool will remain in-situ with investigations to be carried out in April to determine the structural integrity of the pool bowl and associated infrastructure.
“We will need to empty the 50m pool for up to 21 days to carry out investigations which will help us make accurate decisions on refurbishing the pool,” Cr Handasyde said.
“We decided to wait until April when the pool is closed and the ground water is low and stable to minimise any risk to the pool structure.”
Other important components of the redevelopment include heating the water bodies and replacing the filtration and treatment systems.
Work has started start on progressing the design plans and Council is working on accurate costings, including capital and ongoing operational costs.
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