New committee to investigate possibility of Kingborough pool

In Hobart City, the aquatic centre is as popular as ever, in Glenorchy there was public outcry when its public pool closed. But what about Kingborough? Could pool plans be in the works?

Claire Glade-Wright. Image: Kingborough Council.

The Kingborough Council is a step closer to building its own pool, as it now seeks members to join a committee to look into the possibility of a new facility.

In December the council agreed to look into the feasibility of a pool, but the mayor warned it wouldn’t come cheap.

She said state or federal funding would definitely be needed for what could be a $45m build.

In 2019, talk of a public swimming pool led to the state government providing funding for a feasibility study, but years later its yet to become a reality.

Kids are ready for fun on a giant obstacle course at Hobart Aquatic Centre. Picture: Linda Higginson

On Wednesday, deputy mayor Clare Glade-Wright said the new steering committee for the pool would seek financial assistance.

“We know there is a large amount of public interest for a pool in the Kingborough community, though to determine the best way forward, we are calling for expressions of interest for a skills-based committee,” Ms Glade-Wright said.

“The role of the committee will be to consider issues associated with the development of the facility in Kingborough which have been clearly identified in Council’s 2021 feasibility study.

“The committee will consider previous reports and studies, location and design options and identify any funding opportunities available.”

The meetings will be chaired by councillor Kaspar Deane, who voiced his support for a pool last year.

Kaspar Deane councillor Kingborough Council at Hobart Aquatic Centre. Kingborough Council are investigating the possibility of an aquatic centre. Picture: Nikki Davis-Jones

In December, Mr Deane said there was great demand in the community for a pool.

The council is seeking eight members for its committee, with knowledge on planning, design, finance, aquatic centre operations and other aspects of the development.

In Glenorchy, the closure of the public memorial pool led to outrage in the community and overwhelming support for the facility to be immediately repaired.

Meanwhile Hobart is home to a popular aquatic centre.