Clarence MP Chris Gulaptis announces Grafton Aquatic Centre Redevelopment funding boost

Grafton is another step closer to completing the redevelopment of its aquatic centre. Here’s the latest on the hotly anticipated project.

Grafton pool is in dire need of an upgrade.

Grafton is another step closer to completing the redevelopment of its aquatic centre.

On Friday, Clarence MP Chris Gulaptis announced $1.5 million in funding would go towards Stage One of the city’s pool upgrade.

The investment is set to be allocated under the latest round of the NSW Nationals Stronger Country Communities Fund (SCCF).

Grafton pool is in dire need of an upgrade.

Mr Gulaptis said he was delighted to see the funding go towards some local projects that improve community infrastructure.

“We all know how important it is for communities to have great places to come together to build social connections and boost their wellbeing through social interaction, which is what the SCCF is all about,” he said.

Councillor Peter Johnstone said the facility had reached its use by date and Clarence Valley Council was grateful for the funding.

“It’s a huge project to rebuild the facility, so every bit of support is very welcome in helping Council reach its goal to redevelop the site,” Cr Johnstone said.

An artist's impression of the Olympic Pool in Stage One of the Grafton Pool Redevelopment

An artist impression of Stage One of the Grafton Pool redevelopment, looking north to Turf St.

Last September it was reported Grafton Aquatic Centre had to close for at least the 2022-23 season to avoid the risk of a “catastrophic failure” from the deterioration of the 63-year-old pool infrastructure, which has “reached the end of its useful life”.

At the time, the council voted six to three to spend $3.8 million to help deliver the first stage of the Grafton pool redevelopment project.

Stage one — expected to cost an estimated $15 million — will include a new 50m eight-lane outdoor pool, am outdoor grandstand including accessible spaces, a new warm water 25m heated pool.

Additionally, it will include a new beach entry heated leisure pool with program pool, a swim club room, outdoor pool lighting, shaded areas and recreational areas, among other amenities.

Stage 2 — expected to cost around $6 million — will include two water slides, an all ability splash pad, dive pool and refurbishment of existing amenities.

Councillors resolved the South Grafton pool would remain open until Stage 1 of the redevelopment was completed.