Mount Morgan pool redevelopment as current facilities reaches end of life

The current pool has reached end of life and is leaking significantly. A redevelopment is in the works to include a new pool, splash pad and new kiosk. SEE THE PHOTOS.

Preliminary designs have come back to the council table for an upgrade at the Mount Morgan Aquatic Recreation Centre.

The project was touted earlier this year as the pool had reached end of life and was leaking quite significantly.

A notice on the pool's entrance stating the pool would be drained from July 1.

The Mount Morgan Aquatic Centre grounds in August 2022.

Council began draining the pool on July 1 and fencing has been placed around it.

A tender was awarded to engineering company GHD in May for $255, 800 for the concept design and a number of options were presented to council.

A preliminary concept design by GHD Group for the Mount Morgan pool redevelopment.

The project would consist of a new pool that is 25 metres with eight lanes, 900mm to 1350 depth, wet deck, tiled concourse, entry ladders, starting blocks and accessibility.

There would also be a splash pad and wet play area which would most likely be button operated by the user.

Ancillary buildings would be constructed like a new plant shed, change rooms, amenities and an entry kiosk and shade structures.

A proposed design of the kiosk building at the Mount Morgan pool. The building would include female and male changing rooms and toilets, disability rooms, a kiosk and storeroom.

The facility would need to be closed while work is underway and construction is expected to take 12 months.

It was discussed if the squash courts would be demolished but council is now looking to redevelop the site and fix the building.

The squash court building was constructed from funds raised by the Centennial Queens during the 1982 Centenary Celebrations.

The Centennial Queens included Judy Hansson, Leanne Johnson, Glenda North, Kathryn Stock, Diane Timms and Raelea Waldron.

The squash courts building next to the pool.

The heated pool shed also remains empty and closed until further notice.

Council has secured $4.5 million in a State Government Resource Communities Infrastructure Fund and has allocated $2 million towards the project from their own funds.

It was noted at the council meeting that building in Mount Morgan will be more expensive and the facility should use the best practice for water conservation.

A community meeting is planned to be held in the next few months to get feedback on the first concept designs.

After the consultation, more detailed design will need to be done and defined costs in terms of budget.

The caretakers residence across from the Mount Morgan Aquatic Centre.

The caretakers residence across from the Mount Morgan Aquatic Centre.

The Mount Morgan Aquatic Centre.

Parks, Sport and Public Spaces Councillor Cherie Rutherford said the pool was a valuable asset to the community for many years but is now “well and truly at end of life”.

“We’re excited to progress these plans to create a redeveloped Aquatic Centre that will meet the needs of the community now and in the future,” she said.

“We know this facility plays a vital role for Mount Morgan and surrounding communities, and it’s really important to us that the community is involved in this process as we move forward.

“The initial concept gives us a base layout for community consultation.

“From here we’ll undertake some further estimates to ensure the project is within budget before taking it to the community.

“We’re planning to hold a community meeting in Mount Morgan in coming months to share more details and seek feedback, so please keep an ear out for dates and more information.”