Splash pad part of $3.2 million pool revamp
A splash pad and ‘something for all’ are among the plans for a $3.2 million transformation of Balaklava pool, which has just received a $1.6 million contribution from the State Government.
The project named Balaklava’s Pool for All, will completely replace a 25m pool – closed since May 2020 due to structural and compliance issues – and open up and grow the venue with new, exciting features for users of all ages and access needs.
Wakefield Mayor Rodney Reid said the project aligned to the community’s vision of Wakefield as ‘a great place to belong’, and one of Council’s strategic areas of focus, to create liveable communities with recreation and leisure offerings and cool, attractive spaces for everyone to enjoy.
“This project will inject new life into the Balaklava and District War Memorial Public Swimming Pool – which has served the community for 50 years - and bring it up to modern standards, with inclusive and easy access for all, new filtration, plant and equipment, and refurbishment works like pool tiling,” Mayor Reid said.
Council has committed $1.6 million to the project – matching the State’s Local Government Infrastructure Partnership Program grant – but has applied for a further grant for the project, which is investment and spade ready.
“The upgraded facility will boost usage and complement its current surroundings, the nature play park, community garden, bowling club and caravan park, forming a recreation and leisure centre in town.
“Plans involve adding an exciting splash pad for hours of poolside waterplay, which will open the gates to more families, and provide a great destination for children’s parties.
“Swimming lanes will be increased from six to eight, with diving blocks and a disability access ramp installed to service a wider scope of users. These improvements will also reach the appropriate racing standards to accommodate more than 1100 students who participate in swimming carnivals and lessons each year.”
Last year the facility was closed for repairs after a condition’s assessment found a crack in the pool shell. Hamley Bridge and Owen were also forced to close for repairs.
Initial construction works on Owen Swimming Pool have been completed, with a further grant application submitted to rejuvenate the pool, while Hamley Bridge works are under way.