Charters Towers Regional Council is seeking community input on the look, feel and functionality of the upcoming upgrades at the Kennedy Regiment Memorial Pool.

Council was successful in receiving $7.8M from the Queensland Government through the Resources Community Infrastructure Fund (RCIF) to replace the 51-year-old Kennedy Regiment Memorial Pool.

Following the signing of contracts and planning, Council is now commencing Community Engagement which will comprise of the following Stage process:

Stage 1: Survey Engagement Period - Identify Community needs with the new facility (19 September – 16 October 2022) Stage 2: Survey Results - Feedback to be reviewed against funding guidelines (October 2022 – February 2023) Stage 3: Design Presentation - Community feedback and review (March – April 2023) Stage 4: Project Delivered (TBC)

The initial engagement process will be via the new online ‘Have Your Say’ platform, with hard copies available at various locations.  Groups and individuals identified as key stakeholders will be contacted directly to participate in the survey.

Councillor Kate Hastie, whose portfolio includes pools, said community engagement is an important part of the planning process. 

“Upgrading Kennedy Regiment Memorial Pool is a massive undertaking and Council wants to hear from the community to gain insight about their thoughts for this facility.

“I really want to encourage the community to get involved and have their say to help guide the pool’s design.

“We want to make sure we don’t miss anything as we move through the process from concept designs to the final stages before work commences,” said Cr Hastie.

Final feedback will be considered for inclusion in the scope of works for the design of the facility then presented to the community for feedback and review.

As part of the funding submission, Council submitted concept ideas that included a new aquatic facility, new free form toddlers pool, new water filtration system, refurbished amenities, enhanced spectator seating and a new lighting system.

“Council will be restricted in some aspects of the project, including the location and budget, however we want to try to accommodate as much community ideas and concepts as possible within the new design.

“The proposed upgrades will provide a contemporary facility that will provide an amazing sporting, training and recreational venue as well as a health and social hub for the community,“ said Cr Hastie.

To find out more visit www.charterstowers.qld.gov.au/projects