The City of Swan is working with the State Government to move forward with the next chapter of the Ellenbrook Aquatic Centre.
Mayor David Lucas and the City's new Chief Executive Officer, Mr Stephen Cain, today met with the Minister for Planning, Minister for Transport; Planning; Ports, Hon. Rita Saffioti MLA and Member for Swan Hills, Jessica Shaw MLA to discuss options for the State Government to further assist the City with progression of this important community project.
In March 2022, due to rising construction costs and the withdrawal of a second builder from delivery of an approved construction tender, the City paused development of the project and initated a strategic aquatic review.
During the meeting Minister Saffioti advised that the State would consider providing further assistance for this project, with the Government to consider allocating land adjacent to the new Ellenbrook train station for the aquatic centre.
Minisiter Saffioti and Ms Shaw, along with a representative from the office of Ms Tania Lawrence (Member for Hasluck) all stressed their desire to see the City placed in the best position to deliver the project.
Ms Saffioti noted the potential for the aquatic centre to assist in activation of the new train station precinct.
City of Swan Mayor, David Lucas said the City remains committed to seeing the project move forward with the ongoing support of the State and Federal Governments.
"I welcome the opportunity for the State to further support this project," he said.
"The Federal and State Governments are providing significant finance for the construction, but the City needs to ensure we deliver the right long-term outcome for the community.
"Having the opportunity to look at another site for the project will allow the City to see how community facilities can be best located within the townsite to meet the future growth of the Ellenbrook community."
The City will now present a report to Council early in 2023 seeking to include the proposed change of location and offer of additional State support into the review of the Aquatic Facilities Strategy.
