Restoration works for a new and improved Milne Bay Aquatic Centre (MBAC) are progressing with the much-loved community facility now set to reopen in early November.
Toowoomba Regional Council (TR) temporarily closed MBAC in May to undertake much needed maintenance and repair works.
TRC Environment and Community Committee Chair Cr James O'Shea said the Centre was scheduled to reopen in September but due to disruptions to global supply chains caused by COVID-19 its reopening has been delayed.
"COVID has made it difficult to secure certain imported building materials and parts as a result of supply shortages and global markets being disrupted. Unfortunately, this has delayed construction on many projects, including restoration works on MBAC," Cr O'Shea said.
"These works have taken more time than expected while we wait on much-needed materials to complete the project and the entire Centre will now remain closed until early November."
Works being undertaken at MBAC include:
- Resurfacing of the wave pool and program pool flooring
- Removal of existing carbon filters in the pool and replacing them with a more contemporary UV filtration system
- Renovation of the foyer area.
Cr O'Shea said the closure includes the 50 and25 metres and hydrotherapy pools, the spa, sauna, gym and group fitness.
"A large section of the centre remains under construction and with multiple contractors on site, it was deemed necessary to have a full closure of the centre to protect the safety of our patrons," he said.
"We understand how important this facility is to our community and we are working as quickly as we can to have our doors back open to the public as soon as possible.
"These works are critical to ensure this ageing asset is ready for the coming 2021/22 summer season and also able to be enjoyed by the community for many years to come.
"During the extended closure, all centre memberships will remain on suspension for the duration of the works.
"I know the MBAC team are looking forward to reopening and welcoming back their members.
