Alexandrina Council propose Fulham Funerals occupy part of the Goolwa Aquatic Centre

Residents have clashed over a plan to turn “the Fleurieu Peninsula’s best spot” into a funeral home. See the details of the proposal.

Fleurieu Peninsula residents have been left divided over a new business opportunity hitting their local shores.

Alexandrina Council sought feedback from rate payers earlier this month over a new lease agreement with Fulham Funerals for level one of the Goolwa Aquatic Building.

The consultation states the funeral home hopes to provide the first natural waterfront ‘reflection room’ in Australia, rather than a funeral home.

Goolwa Aquatic Centre. Picture: Alexandrina Council

Residents were quick to question the move on a local Facebook group, asking if it really was the most appropriate place for those to gather in difficult moments.

“What happens when reflection coincides with boat sports, skiing, tourist functions? Not sure how mourners will accept holiday noises,” one user wrote.

Another user called it an ‘A Grade dumb idea’.

The site is still host to a number of recreational water sports meets in the ground level of the building.

The lease draft states a ‘reflection room’ is an area that provides space for a gathering of mourners before or after a funeral service or sometimes in place of it, at a venue to eat, drink and share memories of their loved one.

No deceased persons would be viewed at the location.

“The layout of the room and the beautiful outlook over the river is considered an ideal and calming setting for the community to farewell a loved one,” said the report.

The proposed lease is for a term of 15 years to reflect the significant investment proposed in the building, and to provide appropriate time frames for Fulham Funerals to build the business model on the coast.

While many were quick to point out the flaws in the proposed lease, others commended the idea, calling the location one of the best view’s south of Adelaide.

“The is a gorgeous space to cherish loved ones by the river,” a Facebook user said.

“Arguably the best view in Goolwa.”

Council are expected to make a decision in the lease after the local election in November.