Concept plans have been unveiled for the proposed Bundaberg Regional Aquatic Centre, which aims to deliver a state-of-the-art heated pool to promote sports, health and recreation.
Council has identified the Multiplex precinct as the preferred site for a FINA-standard complex with a retractable roof, cafe and grassed spectator area.
Mayor Jack Dempsey said the project will deliver one of the most significant sports and recreation facilities in the modern history of Bundaberg.
“It will provide year-round fitness, health and leisure activities, and has the ability to attract regional and state events,” he said.
“We’ve listened to the community and want to ensure a smooth transition from the historic Anzac Park Pool to a new and improved aquatic centre.
“The riverside precinct will be opened up to create a vibrant community space which connects to the CBD.”
Concept plans have also been released for the $19 million redevelopment of Anzac Park.
The project will create new recreational areas, a flexible outdoor event space and a memorial avenue commemorating the region's service personnel.
A Council fact sheet says the new 50-metre, heated competition pool at the Multiplex will support regional and state level events and training camps.
“Subsequent stages of the project will include additional indoor pools as well as fitness, teaching and therapy rooms, creating a facility able to offer comprehensive fitness and health services,” the fact sheet says.
“Co-locating the Bundaberg Regional Aquatic Facility with the Bundaberg Multiplex, which includes a large modern conference centre and the Bundaberg PCYC, will leverage previous investment and create a defined, branded high performance-based precinct.”
Stage one of the regional aquatic centre is estimated to cost $23.8 million and contribute $22.5 million to gross regional product, including $7.8 million directly.
Economic modelling suggests 126 full-time jobs during construction and 13 directly when operating.
Anzac Park recreation area proposed
Council’s Executive Director Strategic Projects and Economic Development, Ben Artup, said funding applications will be submitted to state and federal governments for both projects.
“These two exciting projects will leave a generational legacy through important social infrastructure,” he said.
“The Anzac Park redevelopment will unlock the riverside precinct as community space for recreation and entertainment including a sound shell, water play feature and adventure playground.
“A new state-of-the-art regional aquatic centre near the Multiplex will provide a modern swimming facility for competitive events and deliver year-round health benefits.”
Mr Artup said the Anzac tradition would continue to be integral at Anzac Park and the pool’s heritage would be respected.
“It’s important to note that Council will coordinate the closure of the old pool with the opening of the new aquatic centre to minimise disruption,” he said.
“Timeframes for construction will depend on the success of funding applications.”
Fact sheets
- Other news: Anzac Park playground makes way for redesign
Is this proposed new aquatic centre and upgrading of Anzac Park a step towards eventually demaining Quay Street and an attempt to justify building the council preferred East Bundaberg levee ahead of other more beneficial flood mitigation proposals?
Does demaining Quay Street mean that all heavy traffic will be forced to use other existing roads or is the rumor about a new road via an extension to Electra Street across to East a real consideration by Council?
If so don’t beat about the bush, come out and say it so that the community can air their disapproval where necessary, people do not enjoy being treated like mushrooms.
Do we just follow Hervey Bay? They’re mayor announced exactly the same aquatic project for them today on ABC Wide Bay, promising exactly the same government funding commitment, and the fact that they could attract State titles, etc. Seems like only one venue will get state titles etc.I think the money would be better spent on other higher priority issues. Remember the airport extensions? Both done at similar time, both promised greater tourism numbers, etc. White Elephants now. Remember the waterpark that Bundaberg “has to have”? We need job creation to increase our population.
I think it will be fabulous for Bundaberg. Three years ago I went to swim in something similar in Bunbury WA, a similar size city to Bundy. The Bunbury complex had several pools, spas & saunas, ball courts and a gym and much more. That centre made a tremendous difference to people in Bunbury and will do so in Bundaberg.
The location is excellent being near the other sports that takes place in the Multiplex. However the BRC will have to organise for buses to travel there and back to the main town.
I hope that Norville pool be not affected by this plan.
If this is the true design plan of Aquatic Pool, we are in 2020. Couldn’t it be a little more modernized in design? Bundaberg needs a makeover.