Users can make a splash at revamped pool

WINCHELSEA residents have until the end of the month to help shape designs for the town’s pool revamp.

The Surf Coast Shire plans to upgrade the 59-year-old swim centre to bring facilities up to modern standards and improve its cost-effectiveness.

The shire wants to encourage widespread community use of the pool facilities, and has suggested uses including pool parties and exercise programs, outdoor movies and community celebrations.

Greater use would also provide better value for money for the shire. The pool has cost $131,000 a year to run in the past five years at a cost of $14.88 per visit – less than half the casual adult swim rate.

The shire said it welcomed feedback from all pool users to guide upgrade plans, and indicated it was open-minded about the project’s scope and budget while it consulted the community.

“The revamped facility must fit within the existing footprint, include components that are appropriate for a local level community aquatic facility, provide a better operational performance and be a space that encourages ongoing community involvement and activation,” the council’s website states.

Surveys to submit feedback and expressions of interest for the upgrade are open until January 31.

The shire said it would develop concept plans for community comment and finalise plans in about April 2022 with an aim to start construction by March 23, after next summer’s pool season.