We can get on and go for it: Mayor

Eurobodalla Mayor Liz Innes says she is delighted to have bi-partisan support for Batemans Bay’s proposed aquatic, arts and leisure centre.

Labor Gilmore candidate Fiona Phillips on Friday pledged $25 million towards the centre if a Labor Federal government is elected.

Mayor Innes said Labor’s announcement gives her absolute confidence about the project’s future.

“We can get on and go for it,” she said.

“Ms Phillips is right, we have to get this project moving and I’m thrilled to know we have her personal backing and that of her party.”

“Like me, Ms Phillips understands that Batemans Bay residents deserve quality, modern facilities.

“We intend to deliver a centre with a 25 metre, 10 lane indoor pool, a warm water therapy pool, learn to swim pool, water slides and a splash pad for the kids. There’ll be a café and fitness areas, and on the arts side, we’ll have a 350-seat theatre, dance and rehearsal studios and community meeting rooms to complete the centre.

“The final design will demonstrate scope for a 50 metre pool in the future if there is need. I have promised the community that and I will deliver.

“We took the time to brief Ms Phillips about our plans and the business case last year, and that clearly paid off,” Clr Innes said.

Council has secured $26 million in NSW Government funding towards the project. The Australian Government has assigned $25 million to the project, pending review of the business case.

Council’s survey on three preliminary concepts for the new centre closed on Sunday 17 February following a six-week community engagement.

The final design, expected to be a hybrid of the three, will be presented to Councillors for their consideration later this year. Once approved, Council will go out to tender for construction of the centre.

To find out more or view the concepts visit the Batemans Bay Aquatic, Arts and Leisure Centre page.