THE Eureka Pool could become a competition training venue under a proposed overhaul of Ballarat’s six pools. PICTURE: FILE
THE Eureka Pool could become a competition training venue under a proposed overhaul of Ballarat’s six pools.
Water play areas scattered around Ballarat for use over summer may also be considered as part of Ballarat City Council’s 2012-13 Aquatic Strategy.
The report outlining the proposed changes will come before tomorrow night’s council meeting.
In a report to the council, community development manager Pete Appleton said swimming was growing in popularity, both as a sport and recreationally.
“As the Ballarat population continues to grow, there will be a need for more additional indoor aquatic provision in Ballarat at the expense of outdoor facilities,” Mr Appleton said.
“Current trends indicate that any additional facilities will particularly need to meet further demand for warm water program space, with a focus on health and rehabilitation.
“Any new facilities into the future also need to be multifunctional in nature, have an ability to be used throughout the year and provide a range of community needs.”
Councillor Judy Verlin has already called for a 50-metre indoor pool to be included in the $80 million Eureka Stadium precinct, which is still only at the masterplan stage.
As part of the strategy, the Ballarat Aquatic Centre could also get indoor and outdoor water-play areas, the Wendouree pool could be heated and a small water spray park installed at the Buninyong pool.
The development potential of both the Brown Hill and Black Hill pools would also be reviewed.
Mr Appleton said water-play facilities were an important part of modern pools while Ballarat currently has no pool suitable for elite competitions or training.
“The current Eureka complex is not deep enRough to host high-level competitions but has the potential to be used as a training venue with the inclusion of starter blocks and a wet deck.”
He also said the Wendouree and Buninyong pools could be upgraded to be the district family recreation facility for north and south Ballarat.
Mr Appleton said the Brown Hill and Black Hill pools would continue serving their limited catchments, with a review of their longer-term development potential to be included in the council’s Sport and Recreation Strategy.
fiona.henderson@thecourier.com.au