Green light for new Drysdale pool

DRYSDALE’S new 50-metre outdoor pool will begin construction this month after the City of Greater Geelong gave its tick of planning approval.

Meanwhile, the city says locals are overwhelmingly in support of a complimentary indoor aquatic and leisure centre at the Drysdale Sports Precinct, as it continues government lobbying for project funding.

The $15.5-million outdoor pool is set to benefit thousands of Bellarine residents when it’s built, saving locals a lengthy return trip to Geelong to access an Olympic-sized pool.

“For too long the Bellarine community has had less access to aquatic facilities than other areas of Greater Geelong, so we’re excited that work will start on the outdoor pool within weeks,” Deputy Mayor Trent Sullivan said.

“The stage one facility will provide more than 3500 students from neighbouring schools with essential learn-to-swim facilities, as well as lap swimming, water exercise and general recreation for the broader community.”

Bellarine Ward councillor Jim Mason said sustainability would be a priority of the new pool, which will include a 16-kilowatt solar system, more than 100 trees and electric vehicle charging stations.

“North Bellarine residents will no longer face drives of up to 35 minutes to the nearest 50-metre outdoor pool when the new facility opens next year,” Cr Mason said.

With first sods soon to turn for the outdoor pool, the council said it would shift its lobbying focus to the project’s second stage, which it estimates will require a further $45 million in federal and state funding.

Indicative plans include a warm water hydrotherapy pool, indoor learn-to-swim and aqua play facilities, and a gym.

The city released part of a community engagement survey today, which showed 83 per cent of respondents would use the stage-two facility, and 73 per cent said it matched their vision for the complex.

“It’s clear community support is there for stage two, and we hope to see funding commitments from the major parties in the lead up to the state and federal elections,” Cr Sullivan said.

The council said it would release its final engagement report mid-this year.