NBAC closure looms

THE North Bellarine Aquatic Centre (NBAC) looks set to close until the summer at the end of the month because the City of Greater Geelong cannot afford to keep the facility open.

Objections to the closure have swelled in recent weeks and a petition urging the city to reconsider has been circulating both online and at the aquatic centre.

At the time of writing, the online petition had reached close to 1,400 signatures.

“The North Bellarine Aquatic Centre was originally intended to be opened year-round, and that’s our aim for the facility when budget allows,” mayor Trent Sullivan said.

“Like many in our community, we face cost pressures that require difficult financial decisions, and we are currently looking at options for an extended opening while assessing the cost implications.”

The decision to operate the facility seasonally was announced prior to the November opening of the $15.5 million NBAC.

When asked for an update on the construction timeline of a 25m indoor swimming pool at the site, and the likely operating hours of the facility once that is complete, no response was provided.