Mudgeeraba swimming centre to get $4m upgrade during aquatic centre build

The Gold Coast’s oldest community swimming centre is to get a $4 million makeover - here’s what we know so far.

The Gold Coast’s oldest community swimming centre is to get a $4 million makeover with plans to keep its pool open as the city builds a new aquatic facility next to it.

Unlike Palm Beach where there is a protest about their community pool being closed for up two years for site works, Mudgeeraba plans to keep its original 25 metre pool during construction of its replacement.

A report to council says the original 25 metre pool, built in 1968 and the oldest still in operation within the city’s portfolio of eight centres, requires replacement “to meet compliance and service requirements”.

The pool had a major leak which was fixed in 2018 and a review by officers recommends redeveloping a new facility in the adjoining Rotary Park.

Mudgeeraba-based councillor Glenn Tozer said councillors at the lifestyle and community committee backed design planning for the future precinct including a pool and park.

“The budget is nominally allocated for 2025, just a few years away,” he said.

“What is loosely proposed is wheelchair ramp access into a new wider pool, located in what is now the playground adjacent the aquatic centre.

“The existing pool may revert to park and playground after the build. Some of these details will be subject the community engagement and planning process that committee has recommended commence soon.”

The pool had about 50,000 annual visitors just a few years ago but that had now increased to more than 120,000.

Laurie Lawrence with the Waller family, Jess 7yrs, Jake 3yrs, and Lauren 9mths at the Mudgeeraba Pool. Picture: PaulRiley.

“My division has 40,000 residents but the pool is opposite the very popular Mudgeeraba State Special School and patrons with particular and unique mobility needs,” Cr Tozer said.

“I will advocate for Mudgeeraba Special School families to be accommodated in all local community facilities, where possible.”

Cr Tozer did not participate in debate at committee having made a conflict declaration but said he had full confidence in council officers overseeing preliminary decision making on master planning the project.

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“Councillors have not yet resolved their view on my involvement at a full council meeting but in due course, the legislation will address the passage of time since 2016 when my young sons were provided swimming lessons in Mudgeeraba,” he said.

“I have always been transparent about gifts and conflicts and have made relevant declarations in accordance with my obligations as councillor.”