‘Review’ targets indoor sport

JOHN VAN KLAVEREN
POPULATION growth in Geelong and neighbouring councils has prompted a review of increased demand for indoor sports facilities, according to the city’s council.
Acting Mayor Cameron Granger said an influx of residents in Surf Coast and Golden Plains was using City of Greater Geelong indoor sports facilities.
“There’s no doubt people from Surf Coast Shire and Golden Plains, for instance, come in and use our facilities,” he said.
Cr Granger attributed the new residents across the region to increased demand for indoor recreation as well as the growing popularity of sport in general.
The review would conduct an audit of public as well as private indoor sports facilities across the region, he said.
“We don’t want to be doubling up because there may also be facilities in neighbouring councils that Geelong residents can use.
“The first step in catering to this growth is to review the current facilities in the region and develop a strategy for the future.”
Cr Granger said the review would go toward a Geelong indoor recreation facilities strategy guiding developments for the next 20 years.
“Indoor sports are much more a part of the sporting mix these days,” he said.
“They’re a great way for people of all ages to maintain their fitness and wellbeing and are especially popular for working people who wish to exercise after hours.”
City of Greater Geelong operates four centres, Geelong Arena, Leisuretime Centre, Barwon Valley Activity Centre and Bellarine Aquatic and Sports Centre.
Cr Granger said the City was working with the departments of Sustainability and Environment and Education and Early Childhood Development as well as Deakin University, Barwon Sports Academy and other sport clubs and associations.
A draft of the strategy was scheduled for completion to be available for community comment around the middle of the year, he said.