Crows’ Aquatic Centre HQ proposal put under the microscope at community meeting
It’s been the purpose of the council for 200 years to protect the parklands, argued one speaker at Wednesday’s debate. But others say the Crows’ plan fits the landscape.
National
Don't miss out on the headlines from National. Followed categories will be added to My News.
- Crows release new plans for parklands HQ
- David Penberthy: Council sending itself broke running old centre
About 200 people attended a community debate on Wednesday night that thrashed out both the benefits and negatives of the Crows’ proposed $65 million HQ on the North Adelaide parklands.
The packed crowd at the North Adelaide Community Centre heard how multiple councils could all operate the facility, which would replace the Aquatic Centre while others applauded the football team’s redevelopment plans.
Speakers included Adelaide Parklands Preservation Association president Shane Sody, former Liberal deputy premier Graham Ingerson and Ingrid Wangel on behalf of her mother Olympian mother, Denise Norton, after whom the site is named.
The debate was labelled a chance for residents to form an opinion and respond to the council’s community consultation, which was extended at an Adelaide City Council meeting earlier this week.
Mr Ingerson said the Aquatic Centre needed urgent upgrade, so having the Crows lead the development seemed like a “good proposition”.
“A new $65 million public facility with a modern design, of lower height and fits the parklands landscape,” Mr Ingerson said.
Last week, the Crows released new images about its proposed training and administration complex at the Aquatic Centre site.
About 600sq m of land would also be returned to the parklands.
Ms Wangel argued a commercial entity should not takeover the site and urged the council not to support the development.
“The purpose of the Adelaide City Council for almost 200 years has been to protect the parklands … don’t drop the ball now, councillors,” Ms Wangel said.
Adelaide Parklands Preservation Association, who organised the debate, has been overwhelmingly against the proposal since it was first announced last year.
President Shane Sody strongly opposed the development and would rather Adelaide City and neighbouring councils share the cost to run the venue.
“Users could get a discounted service if their council areas contribute to funding the services,” Mr Sody said.
Consultation on the Crows’ proposal ends on March 11.
Originally published as Crows’ Aquatic Centre HQ proposal put under the microscope at community meeting