The Noosa Aquatic Centre's 50m pool has re-opened and is welcoming swimmers back following one of the most significant upgrades ever undertaken at the facility.
The three-month project included a comprehensive refurbishment of the centre's 50m pool filtration system and replacement of the Program Pool filtration system.
With more than 2.5 million litres of water safely returned to the 50m pool, summer operating hours have commenced from Monday, 14 September.
"This $2.28 million investment in critical infrastructure at the Noosa Aquatic Centre (NAC) will ensure it continues to provide safe, reliable and high-quality facilities for the thousands of people who use it each year," Acting Mayor Brian Stockwell said.
"The work we've undertaken at the NAC has been some of the most extensive since it opened in 1999 and we thank members, user groups and patrons for their patience and flexibility during the centre's temporary closure."
Sport and Active Lifestyles Manager Brad Chalmers said Council took a sustainable approach to the project, choosing to refurbish and modernise the existing 50m pool filtration system rather than replace it entirely.
"This approach will deliver the same high standard of water treatment while saving around 42 per cent compared to the cost of installing a completely new filtration system," Mr Chalmers said.
"By refurbishing and enhancing the existing system, Council was able to extend the life of valuable infrastructure, reduce waste and deliver a more sustainable outcome for the community, while still incorporating modern, reliable water treatment technology.
"The decision also considered long-term maintenance requirements, operational efficiency and the expected lifespan of the equipment to ensure the best value for ratepayers and the community."
From 14 September, the Noosa Aquatic Centre will operate under its summer schedule, opening from 5am to 7pm on weekdays and from 7am to 6pm on Saturdays and Sundays.
Aquatic programs will progressively return, with the Program Pool scheduled to recommence operations from Monday 21 September.
Programs include learn-to-swim classes, squad training, aqua aerobics, lap swimming, masters swimming and triathlon training.
Memberships, visit passes and aquatic programs will return to normal arrangements when the facility reopens.
