Mayor welcomes $25 million for new aquatic, arts centre

Eurobodalla Mayor Liz Innes is thrilled the federal government has announced $25 million toward the new Batemans Bay Regional, Aquatic, Arts and Leisure Centre at Mackay Park.

Gilmore MP Ann Sudmalis announced the funding at the Batemans Bay Pool on Monday morning.

Clr Innes said it was a “fabulous day” for Eurobodalla.

“This is incredibly exciting news, and we’re so very grateful for this funding,” Clr Innes said.

“There’s no doubt this project will be well-received and loved by the whole of Eurobodalla for many, many years to come.

“It means the hard work of our community groups, who have campaigned for years for such a facility, will finally see their efforts pay off.

“Our swimming clubs will be able to train locally and our children will be able to access swimming lessons year-round, while our older residents and those with disability can undergo therapy in a purpose-built warm-water pool.

“Batemans Bay will be home to a top-notch performing arts centre with professional-standard theatre, art gallery, dance studio and dedicated art workshop rooms.

“We just can’t wait to get on and deliver this for our community.”

Monday’s $25 million announcement from the federal government follows $26 million allocated by the NSW Government for the project last year.

“I’d like to thank Gilmore MP Ann Sudmalis, and the newly-re-elected Member for Bega Andrew Constance, for their incredible support,” Clr Innes said.

“We have never seen state and federal governments investing so much money in Eurobodalla, and together we have achieved wonderful outcomes for our shire that will benefit our community for generations to come.”

Construction of the centre is planned to start early 2020 to have the centre open for summer 2021. The build is planned so Batemans Bay Pool will only be closed for one swimming season once work is underway.

The architects appointed to design the centre have begun work on a final design after the community provided feedback on three concept layouts in January and February.

The final design will be presented to councillors for their consideration later this year and, once approved, Council will go out to tender for construction of the centre.

More on the project is on our Batemans Bay Regional Aquatic, Arts and Leisure Centre project page.