Hub progresses despite missing out on grant

CONSTRUCTION of the Northern Aquatic and Community Hub will go ahead, with the tender process currently underway, despite missing out on a $10 million grant.

The $61.6 million project remains on track and fully funded, however the city is disappointed its bid to secure additional federal funding through the latest Building Better Regions round of funding was unsuccessful.

The city agreed to provide a further $21.84 million in May, taking its contribution to $44.84 million, so it was eligible to apply for a $10 million BBR grant, which required the project to be fully funded.

The state government has already committed $8.5 million and the federal government has contributed $8.26 million from the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Fund.

City chief executive officer Martin Cutter said the council had been dedicated to pursuing every available opportunity for funding for the Northern Aquatic and Community Hub.

“While an unsuccessful grant application is always disappointing, the Australian Government has shown its support for the project through an $8.26 million contribution,” Mr Cutter said.

“This result does put extra financial pressure on the city at a time when we are running a deficit due to the impacts of COVID-19.

“The project is fully funded via a partnership between council, the Victorian Government and the Australian Government, meaning it will be going ahead regardless of this outcome.

“The construction tender process is already in progress and we are looking forward to work on the site beginning.”

Plans for the facility, which will be built in Cox Road, Norlane, include a 25-metre pool, hydrotherapy pool, Learn-to-Swim pool, water play area and waterslide; spa, sauna and steam room; café; gym and group exercise; consulting suites for maternal child health; early childhood care; and rehabilitation services, with a large multi-purpose community hall also featured in the plans.

The council’s resolution in May noted that extra funding would continue to be sought from the state and federal governments.