A new 50-metre outdoor pool for the north Bellarine has moved a major step closer, after the Council endorsed concept plans for the facility and put forward significant funding in its Proposed Budget.
As part of the proposed budget released on Tuesday night, the Council has allocated $1.5 million for the facility in 2021-22, with a further $2.75 million projected in forward planning for 2022-23.
If each of the amounts are ultimately endorsed following the budget feedback process, it would take the Council's contribution to $5.15 million – adding to the significant $10 million commitment from the federal government.
The proposed funding over the next two years follows initial Council allocations of $150,000 for a feasibility study in 2019-20 and $750,000 for the design phase in 2020-21.
During the meeting, councillors endorsed concept plans, which have been designed in line with the City of Greater Geelong's funding agreement with the federal government.
In response to community feedback seeking further aquatic facilities at the site, councillors also resolved to advocate for funding for a future stage two of the project.
Mayor Stephanie Asher said the 50-metre outdoor pool would fill a clear need on the north Bellarine and bring huge benefits to the local community.
"We are very excited to have made further progress toward this long awaited 50-metre outdoor pool by endorsing the concept plans, and we greatly appreciate the federal government's $10 million commitment," Mayor Asher said.
"A 50-metre outdoor pool is ideal for the north Bellarine because it will allow for full scale swim training and Learn to Swim programs – both essential for increasing water safety and creating surf ready swimmers. We are keenly aware that bus fees are the greatest barrier to learn to swim so the co-location with the three schools and the central position in Drysdale is perfect.
