Tamworth community supports new Aquatic and Leisure Facility

The Tamworth region has thrown its support behind the proposal for a new aquatic and leisure facility with 80% of respondents to the recent community consultation voting in favour of the development.

Following the third stage of the community consultation process; the release of concept designs and a call for community feedback on the future direction of aquatics in the region, more than 3000 residents had their say with the majority supporting the development of the facility with a 50 metre outdoor and 50 metre indoor pool. 

Tamworth region Mayor Col Murray said: “The results of the recent consultation are consistent with previous market research undertaken and the initial community consultation, demonstrating support for the development at all stages of the process.

“While the community has raised some concerns over the proposed location and the closure of the two current pools, we have openly stated that the development of a new facility would require the sale of the two existing swimming pools.

“Despite these concerns, the community is largely supportive of a new facility and we will need to look at the options for addressing accessibility and transport,” he said.

Council will consider the outcomes of the community consultation as part of the business case for the Aquatic and Leisure Centre at its next meeting on Tuesday 18 December. The meeting is open for community members to attend. Council will also live stream the meeting via its Facebook page from 6.30pm. 

Tamworth Regional Council General Manager Paul Bennett said “This is an important decision for Tamworth, which is why we’ve conducted three separate community consultations as part of the process and will live stream the discussion and decision from the Council chamber on Tuesday evening.”