Millmerran residents are closer to making a splash with Toowoomba Regional Council (TRC) set to invite tenders for the design and construction of the new Millmerran Aquatic Centre in the coming weeks.
A concept design has been developed for the $6 million refurbishment project following the completion of community consultation in late 2020, which highlighted a new 50-metre pool was the preferred option among residents.
TRC Environment and Community Services Committee Chair Cr James O'Shea said the project was progressing and construction was expected to be completed by late 2022.
"Council is currently working towards requesting tenders and we anticipate construction will start in late 2021," Cr O'Shea said.
"During consultation Council asked community members how they currently use the aquatic centre and presented several options for the refurbishment of the pool.
"We listened carefully to the feedback we received and a design has been developed based upon ideas and areas for improvement brought forward by the Millmerran community.
"As well as the construction of a new 50-metre pool, the design features several improvements to the current facilities including a new kiosk building, change rooms, covered grandstand, improved shade areas and pool heating.
"Energy efficient LED lighting will also be installed and an access ramp is planned to ensure the pool is accessible to people living with a disability or limited mobility."
Cr O'Shea said once the project was complete the new facilities would be a long-term asset for the Millmerran community.
"Millmerran deserves a high-quality aquatic centre that will meet the needs of its growing community now and into the future for decades to come," Cr O'Shea said.
"Once this project is complete, the aquatic centre will continue to cater for the local swimming club and competition, learn-to-swim classes, as well as those residents who simply use the pool to relax and have fun."
To facilitate the new construction work, the Millmerran Aquatic Centre will unfortunately remain closed until late 2022.
