Council is seeking feedback and suggestions from interested parties and will host a drop-in information stand at the aquatic centre on Thursday, March 22, from 3.30pm to 7pm. 

The concept proposes an indoor 50m pool, extending the existing 25m indoor pool, a warm water Learn to Swim (LTS) program pool and an indoor wet/dry play area.

Identified in council’s Community Strategic Plan as a priority project, the centre consistently receives high levels of community satisfaction in council surveys and, if the concept is adopted, will expand the capacity of the important regional facility.

Replacement of the existing 50m pool, which is almost nine decades old and has a significant leak, has been planned for a number of years. 

A warm water pool, heated to 32°C, would be utilised for Learn to Swim classes for infants through to school age children and also function as a therapy pool.

The concept includes a dry play area, which would double as a party room, and child minding area, and a wet play area opening, via large bi-fold doors onto a large deck, green space and barbecue area.

Spokesperson for recreation and wellbeing Cr Michelle Green welcomes the proposed expansion of the centre.

“A warm water pool will enhance the centre’s reputation as an inclusive and accessible centre of wellbeing in the community,” she said.

“The concept, in its entirety, is a year-round exciting and innovative regional level facility that offers something for every member of our community.

“Drowning is a leading cause of unintentional injury-related death to children ages one through to 14 and it is absolutely crucial that all kids learn how to swim at a young age.  

“The warm water pool will enable an expansion of the current Learn to Swim program and also encourage and motivate parents to engage in year round lessons for their children.”

The Aquatic Centre Concept Plan is available on council’s website, at the Administration Centre, 157 Maitland Street, the Aquatic Centre, Denman Pool and Muswellbrook and Denman libraries.

Interested parties are invited to view the exhibited documents and make a written submission, addressed to:

* the General Manager, P O Box 122 Muswellbrook, NSW 2333; or

* email council@muswellbrook.nsw.gov.au