Mittagong Pool to remain closed for 2021/22 swim season
Mittagong Swimming Pool will remain closed for the upcoming summer swim season following a decision from Council’s Interim Administrator Mr Viv May.
Mr May said the season closure would enable Council staff to undertake consultation to gauge community sentiment and ascertain the future of the pool.
“There’s no point continually throwing money at the pool every time it floods without a long-term plan,” he said.
“It’s important that Council provide the community with a facility that isn’t continually interrupted or closed.”
Mittagong Swimming Pool was originally built on the bed of the Nattai River by the Shire’s forefathers.
The Council report tabled on Wednesday 28 July 2021 shows the pool has been closed five times for major repairs or refurbishment since 2014 as a result of flood damage. Repairs for these closures have cost $6.1 million to date.
In passing down his decision Mr May moved that key pool stakeholders be informed of the determination and that nearby residents be notified of the decision to close the pool for the 2021/22 swim season.
“Key to any consultation will be discussions with key user groups to ensure any disruptions are minimised and access to alternate pools is arranged,” Mr May said.
“I’ve also suggested that before any concrete plans are made that a Shire-wide Aquatics Strategy and Community Precinct Masterplan for Mittagong be prepared and presented to residents for comment.”
“Together these documents will help the incoming determining body make an educated decision about the future of the pool that will be in the best interests of all residents and pool users.”
Budget implications in relation to the temporary closure of the pool and the expected costs of updating the Aquatics Strategy and development of the Mittagong Community Precinct Masterplan will be reported at the September Quarterly Review of the 2021/22 Budget.
Council is to also give consideration as to possible future funding mechanisms, including infrastructure levies, to provide a potential regional aquatic leisure centre in the area.