It’s decision time on the future of aquatics in Tamworth

The time has come to make a decision regarding the development of a new aquatic and leisure facility in Tamworth. 

Tamworth Regional Council is encouraging the community to give feedback on the future direction of aquatics and the concept design options for a new facility. 

Earlier this year, Council surveyed the community to get their thoughts on a new facility with over 92% of respondents rating a new facility as very important or somewhat important. 

Tamworth region Mayor Col Murray said: “This is a really important decision and now is the time for our community to speak up – we need to hear from the whole community on this.

“Our community has previously told us that a new facility should be considered. Council has taken this feedback on board and we now have some concept designs for the proposed Aquatic and Leisure Centre that we need everyone’s thoughts on,” he said.

A key consideration in the decision-making process is the ageing condition of Tamworth’s two current pools, which have serviced the community well for the past 50 years and are now coming to the end of their lifespan.

As Cr Murray explains, “Council has conducted extensive research on financially viable models of aquatic facilities and the research has confirmed that our current aquatic facilities are not sustainable due to a number of factors including usage, functionality, maintenance, parking, opportunity for expansion and safety standards.”

In order to fund a new facility on a new site, Council would need to sell the two existing swimming pools. Council will continue to run and maintain both pools until a decision is reached. 

“If you didn’t complete the survey last year, this is your chance to have your say and tell us if you support a new aquatic and leisure facility,” said Cr Murray.

“We need to be sure that everyone has had their say and that our community is supportive of a new aquatic and leisure centre for Council to progress further plans.”

Council will consider the outcomes of the consultation process and pending community support for the project, will develop a detailed business case to assist in securing funding for the new facility. 

To view the concept plans, take a virtual tour through one of the designs and have your say on the proposed centre, visit yourvoice.tamworth.nsw.gov.au before 30 November 2018.