State Government Funding for Pool Investigation Welcomed

Glenorchy City Council welcomes the State Government’s announcement of funding to assist council to assess options for the Glenorchy War Memorial Pool and engage with the community to help inform decisions around the site.

Glenorchy Mayor Bec Thomas said the council was committed to doing a full evaluation of the pool and understanding what the community wanted based on not only capital redevelopment costs but operational costs of a replacement facility in the longer term.

“I’m pleased that following our discussions about the pool when State Cabinet met in Glenorchy last week the State Government has been able to assist council to fund the work that needs to be done.

“It’s important we get this right and understand the best way to support residents to access recreation facilities that enable healthy, active lifestyles and meet contemporary standards.”

Mayor Thomas said the pool would remain closed this season due to public safety issues with the 60 year-old facility.

“Unfortunately, normal maintenance is no longer keeping pace with the rate of deterioration of the pool, which has developed significant leaks and requires urgent work to not just ensure it is safe for use, but also complies with modern standards in relation to disability access and privacy protections.

“The council understands many people in the community have a strong attachment to the pool. As someone who grew up in Glenorchy, I share that attachment having spent many summers growing up at the pool.

“As part of this process we will explore options for a redeveloped facility and factor those into conversations we have with the State and Federal governments for funding into the future,” Mayor Thomas said.