Bundaberg Aquatic Centre construction is underway in earnest as work begins on its foundations, featuring more than 800 driven concrete piles.
There has been plenty of action on the Walker Street site in recent weeks as earthworks progressed, but Mayor Jack Dempsey said the concrete pile installation was the start of “construction proper”.
“The new aquatic centre will be founded on over 800 driven concrete piles which range in length up to 18 m long,” Mayor Dempsey said.
“The piles will support the facility which will feature an Olympic sized, FINA-standard pool and two 25 m pools targeted at learn to swim and rehabilitation opportunities.
“From here we will start to see the aquatic centre taking shape as we move closer to the completion of this state-of-the-art facility.
“This centre will boost jobs, improve social and health outcomes for all and spur economic growth.
“It’s certainly a very exciting day to see construction officially underway.”
Work to drive the concrete piles will continue throughout January, February and into March however will not be occurring on the weekend.
Weather permitting, the concrete pile installation is expected to be completed in March, after which construction of the pools themselves will begin.
Council will be monitoring the noise and vibration from the site throughout this period.
“We sincerely apologise for the construction noise which will be created during these periods for what, in the long-term, will be a significant project for the entire community,” Mayor Dempsey said.
“Once the project is finished it will incorporate gardens and facilities for the community to enjoy.
“With any project of this magnitude there is always a need for extensive construction to be undertaken and I can assure residents that sound and vibration levels will be monitored to ensure compliance with all standards.”
Engineering behind concrete pile foundations
Following extensive investigations into the best site for the new Bundaberg Aquatic Centre, the Walker Street location, which had historic use as a landfill, was chosen.
It was the preferred location due to its proximity to the Multiplex with the added advantage and cost saving of already being owned by Council.
The concrete piles, which will form part of the foundations, range in length up to 18 m and take into account the depth of the former landfill.
While a detailed design was not complete for any of the other sites, driven piles would almost certainly have been required at any site due to the weight of the pools and the highly reactive nature of the soil found throughout the region.
The Bundaberg Aquatic Centre has been funded with support from the Queensland Government Works for Queensland program.
