The first sod has been turned at the Goulburn Aquatic & Leisure Centre, marking the beginning of demolition and construction of the new facility.
The $29 million budget for Stage one of the Goulburn Aquatic & Leisure Centre Redevelopment was made possible through a $10 million commitment from the NSW Liberal National Government during the 2019 State election.
The redevelopment is a long awaited project that is the result of a number of years of planning, including by the original Aquatic Centre Working Party in 2016 and 2017.
FDC Contracting will be undertaking the project, and are working through design amendment finalisation.
Member for Goulburn Wendy Tuckerman said the redeveloped centre would be one of the leading sport and recreation facilities in southern NSW.
“The NSW Government is committed to providing world-class sport and recreation facilities to support the next generation of swimming talent in regional NSW,” Ms Tuckerman said.
Acting Minister for Sport Geoff Lee said the project would encourage more people to be healthy and active as well as providing recreation opportunities for people of all abilities.
“Sport and active recreation bring so many great benefits for our communities and we are proud to invest in the redevelopment of the Goulburn Aquatic & Leisure Centre,” Mr Lee said.
“As seen through the artist’s impressions of the project, the facility will link with Victoria Park nicely to allow access for community members enjoying the Adventure Playground or other aspects of the park” said Mayor Bob Kirk.
“I know many parents who will be looking forward to being able to walk up to the Aquatic Centre café to grab a coffee or sandwich while the kids enjoy Victoria Park, or of course while swimming in this brilliant new facility when complete.”
Demolition of the existing indoor pool is expected to be completed by early September, when site works will officially kick off. Design amendments and the final construction certificate are also expected to be completed by this time.
The final completed project will include extensive tree planting and landscaping to replace these and to ensure there is plenty of shade and cooler space for the summer months.
An important consideration of planning for demolition works has been to retain services for operation of the exsiting outdoor 50m pool – this has required liaison with service providers for electricity, gas, water and sewerage. Council intends to have the outdoor 50m pool open by September for community use.
Now that demolition and construction are underway underway the southern carpark on Deccan Street is closed to the public. During this time the easiest access to the Skate Park will be from Verner Street.