Construction approval granted for $29.6m aquatic centre at Mt Barker

A $29.6m aquatic and leisure centre – the biggest of its kind in regional SA – has been given the final nod of approval. Here’s what you can expect.

A multimillion-dollar aquatic and leisure centre in Mt Barker could begin construction late next year as the development has received its final nod of approval.

The state’s public works committee this week approved work on the $29.6m centre, with stage 1 to include a 25m indoor lap pool, a learn-to-swim pool, as well as a toddler and leisure pool.

There will also be change areas, a gym, a cafe and other supporting elements.

Stage 2, which is yet to secure funding, will include a 50m outdoor pool and water slides.

Kavel MP Dan Cregan said the committee’s decision overcame one of the final hurdles to the construction of the new facility.

“This is a critical step in building a new aquatic and leisure centre for the Hills at Mount Barker,” he said.

“We badly need this new facility. The existing Mountain Pool attracts 15,000 people each year and is only 33 and one third yards long.

“It was built by the community 60 years ago and I don’t think anybody ever thought it would be used for the population we now have.

“Rapid population growth is forecast to continue in the Hills over the next 25 years. We need to start building this new facility now.”

An early artist impressionsof Mt Barker’s new regional aquatic and leisure centre. Source: Aston Hills

An early artist impression of Mt Barker’s new regional aquatic and leisure centre. Source: Aston Hills

The aquatic centre will form part of the Summit Sports Hub, a master planned leisure, sports, and entertainment precinct over 40ha.

A range of complementary uses are proposed for future stages of “The Hub”, such as a holiday park and accommodation, an adventure playground, a fitness centre, a gymnasium, and indoor multipurpose courts.

Mt Barker District Council mayor Ann Ferguson said as well as catering for the region’s needs, the aquatic centre would be a strong tourism driver, and create significant employment opportunities for the region.

A concept map of The Summit precinct, also known as The Hub. Supplied by Dan Cregan

“(The) announcement is another sign of confidence in the project and takes council closer to resolving formal funding agreements with the state government for their $7.3m committed towards the project,” she said.

“Once this agreement is in place, council can commence the detailed design and then construction phase of the development.”

With Mt Barker population on track to exceed 60,000 by 2036, Ms Ferguson said the town needed to plan for key infrastructure projects.  

“This precinct has the potential to become a dynamic space, incorporating an integrated mix of recreation, leisure, sport, entertainment and accommodation uses,” she said.

“Council will be approaching the market shortly around the operation of the aquatic facility and complementary investment within the broader precinct. We then look forward to sharing these ideas with the community.”