A re-elected NSW Nationals Government will provide $10 million towards the redevelopment of the Grafton Regional and Casino Memorial swimming pools.
Nationals' candidate for Clarence, Richie Williamson, has announced a re-elected government will provide Clarence Valley Council with $6 million towards the redevelopment of the Grafton Regional Aquatic Centre.
Mr Williamson said he was delighted to be able to secure this election commitment, which will deliver the construction of the new 50-metre pool and grandstand.
"For many families, the pool is the social highlight of summertime," Mr Williamson said.
"Grafton can be very hot in the summer and the pool is a great place to cool down.
"It's an important community hub, a place to teach water safety, to train and exercise, and a place for the community to interact socially.
"I want to see mums and dads back at the pool with their kids. I want to hear the cheering and camaraderie that school swimming carnivals bring, and I'm thrilled to be able to make this multi-million-dollar election commitment."
Mr Williamson said the NSW Nationals in Government had already invested $1.5 million to enable Council to commence early works to demolish existing buildings and pools on site and to facilitate the construction of the splash pad through the NSW Nationals' signature initiative – the Stronger Country Communities Fund.
"The $6 million commitment by a re-elected Nationals Government will help deliver Stage Two of the project and get Council closer to the finish line," he said.
Clarence Valley Mayor, Cr Ian Tiley said the redevelopment of the Grafton pool is Clarence Valley Council's number one infrastructure project priority.
"The commitment to fund the 50-metre outdoor pool is something the community and I strongly welcome," Cr Tiley said.
Mr Williamson has also announced a re-elected NSW Nationals Government will partner with Richmond Valley Council with a $4 million election commitment to help deliver Stage Two of the Casino Memorial Pool upgrade.
He said the upgrade of the Pool was identified as a high priority project by Council and he was delighted to be able to secure this commitment which will help deliver the indoor heated pool precinct.
Mr Williamson said Richmond Valley Council had already kick-started Stage One of the upgrade thanks to $3.2 million in funding secured by the Nationals Member for Page Kevin Hogan from the former Federal Government with a co-contribution from Council.
"The next stage of the redevelopment includes the construction of a new four-lane indoor pool and plant room in the precinct, with an all-abilities access ramp and a one-metre deep multipurpose area for learn-to-swim and fitness programs," Mr Williamson said.
Richmond Valley Council Mayor Robert Mustow welcomed the Nationals' election commitment and said the second stage of the pool upgrade would create a year-round facility for the community to use.
