Western Downs residents asked for input as Chinchilla pool is set for a complete rebuild

Western Downs residents have been invited to share their ideas regarding the rebuild of Chinchilla pool with reports it has reached the end of its usable lifespan. Full details.

Chinchilla Aquatic Centre Picture: WDRC

The process which will see Chinchilla’s public pool be completely replaced due to it reportedly reaching its end of life has begun, following consultation with residents in the area.

Western Downs Regional Council expressed their welcome to residents who wish to have their say on the aquatic centre after council adopted the Aquatic Facilities Strategy 2023-2038. 

Councillor Megan James said public input was a vital part of the process.

“Our local aquatic centres are much-loved community assets and we’re excited to start the journey of exploring how we can ensure the Chinchilla pool continues to serve the needs of the community well into the future,” Mrs James said.

She shared that during the Aquatic Facilities Strategy it was identified that the Chinchilla pool was approaching the end of its useable life and needed to be scheduled for replacement.

“To begin this process, council is seeking input from the community about the possible location and facility inclusions for the aquatic centre and has engaged experienced consultants to engage with residents and propose a potential facility location and possible inclusions for consideration by council,” she said.

The councillor said there would be minor remediation works completed over the next two years to enable the pool to remain open and operational during the planning phase.

“It’s important we take the time to get this right, and the community input is vital in ensuring that the replacement of the Chinchilla pool is future-focused and aligned with the needs of the local community both now, and well into the future,” she said.

Last week residents joined council at a ‘drop in’ session at the pool to discuss their ideas with consultants, and now council have launched a survey online for residents to complete and have their say on the facility.

“While it’s very early in the process, it’s important we hear from the community from the beginning, so to ensure future project plans reflect the needs of all types of pool users.”

Originally published as Western Downs residents asked for input as Chinchilla pool is set for a complete rebuild