Surf Coast Shire Council has endorsed detailed designs for a planned $46 million aquatic centre at a special meeting this week.
The Surf Coast Aquatic and Health Centre in Torquay North will include a 25-metre pool, an indoor program pool, gym, allied health suites and program spaces.
The council will contribute over $9 million to the project, while the federal government will provide $20 million.
The Victorian government will contribute $13 million, as well as a further $3.5 million through its Growing Suburbs Fund for community wellbeing spaces within the centre.
With a focus on environmental sustainability and efficiency, the centre’s design includes all-electric power, a rooftop solar array and 100 per cent rainwater retention and reuse.
Ceiling heights have been kept to 7 metres and under, compared to the 11-metre ceilings common in similar centres, with the design also minimising heat transfer between internal spaces.
Surf Coast Shire mayor Liz Pattison said the council was “proud and excited” to have reached this point in the process.
“We… look forward to having tenders received by the end of December and a contract awarded by the end of April 2024,” Mayor Pattison said.
“We are aiming for completion early in 2026, bringing our community and visitors a health and wellbeing asset for all, from learn-to-swimmers to older adults, people with disability, families, lap swimmers and everyone in-between.
“We recognise that this facility has been a long-held ambition. Our detailed design has taken into consideration feedback and inputs gathered through the design process and we thank community members and particularly our Community Reference Group for their insights and sustained commitment to the project.
“We also acknowledge the significant support of Australian Government, with funding of $20 million, and the Victorian Government’s contribution of $13 million.”
