New pool plans soften 2021 closure
• A real-time visual of what the new pool development will look like.
• A look at the new wet play area and new learn to swim pool.
By Taylor Clyne
March 11, 2020
Following last week’s article regarding the $6 million Scottsdale Swimming Pool redevelopment and its looming commencement date, Council has finally revealed its plans and revised completion timelines.
Mayor Greg Howard said after consultation with project manager Heath Clayton it has been confirmed that the pool will not open for the 2020/2021 season.
“It is physically impossible to complete the rebuild of the pool in between swimming seasons despite our original advice that we could complete it within the nine-month seasons closure.
“The minimum build period will be 12 months, but possibly closer to 15 months due largely to the need to expose the concrete pools to a warm, dry summer period in order for the concrete to cure sufficiently to then attach the tiles,” he said.
Mr Clayton advised that a Tasmanian spring is not warm enough for the concrete to dry adequately.
“The contract for the design and construct part of the wet play area is going to the March Council meeting with the remaining tenders of the construction of the swimming pools and installation of filtration and heating infrastructure likely come to the April or May meetings.”
It’s expected that once these tenders are awarded work will start sometime after May.
Taking a look inside the new layout and design the re-build will incorporate a 25 metre eight lane swimming pool with starting blocks and disabled access facing east west on the Coplestone Street side of the pool area, essentially turning the pools direction around.
“There will also be a new learn to swim pool with disabled access located roughly in the vicinity of the current pool and the wet play area will have two slides for children to enjoy.”
Scottsdale Swimming Club president David Galloway said the news of closure was certainly not what they wanted but the club knew it was coming.
“It’s so hard these days with young kids, once they lose interest in a sport it’s hard to get them back.
“We’ve built the club up so much and have about 50 registered swimmers ranging in ages of 5-16 years, so we don’t want to lose this momentum without a pool next season.
“It’s disappointing in one sense but we know it’s going to be a great facility we get in the end so it’s a tough one,” Mr Galloway said.
“Our committee are going to get a plan together, it’s better to know now so we can start working out things during the off season.
It’s expected the club will scope out Branxholm’s four lane pool and investigate collaboration options with Launceston Swimming Clubs.
“We are lucky that we have great parents within the club who are committed to the sport and will help keep numbers during the tough year ahead,” Mr Galloway concluded.