First look at amazing Gold Coast pool upgrade to be fast forwarded by council
A Gold Coast aquatic centre’s $15 million upgrade is expected to be delivered earlier than expected. Take a sneak peek inside.
Council
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THE $15 million upgrade of the Miami Aquatic Centre will be delivered earlier than expected and finished by Christmas next year, according to a council report.
The Bulletin can reveal details of the centre improvements after councillors in a closed session of council ticked off on an officer’s recommendation for a contractor.
Councillors early last month approved the pool upgrade as part of a $20 million makeover of the Coast’s largest park, endorsing the Pizzey Park masterplan strongly backed by area councillor Pauline Young.
Just one kilometre from the beach, the aquatic centre will be redeveloped to international standards as part of stage one of a 15-year project.
Documents provided to councillors in a closed session and now available in a redacted form detail the tender process.
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“The current project budget of $15.69 million was based on the adopted masterplan as presented to council on May 2018,” the council report said.
“The redevelopment includes replacement and expansion – eight lanes to 10 lanes and ramp – new and expanded Learn to Swim pool, construction of new change facilities, entry administration and cafe and construction of a new water play area.”
Early investigations show there are several site constraints including a new substructure and supports for pools and buildings.
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The existing car parks will need to be expanded to meet traffic management requirements.
“Based on tender submissions, the project is now proposed to be delivered in 12 months – December 2019 to December 2020 – shortening the construction program by six months,” the report said.
Councillor Young said the original plan was for the project to be completed across 18 months.
“Now contractors say it will be a 12 month project. The site will be handed over to them this month,” Cr Young said.
“The majority of the current site will be a construction zone. What won’t be a construction zone is the pool closest to the road that’s ten lanes and will remain open. A temporary learn to swim facility will be dropped into the site as well.”
Cr Young said residents would be invited to “have your say” on the masterplan between November 27 and December 17.
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