Margaret River aquatic centre to reopen in December

Margaret River’s pool will be back in business and better than ever at the end of this year. A Shire of Augusta-Margaret River update this week confirmed an official reopening for the Margaret River Recreation Centre was slated for December. The aquatic centre project – which includes a major roof replacement as well as construction of a swanky new cafe currently advertising for a commercial operator – was previously confirmed for a September-October finish. However, during the project major flaws were discovered in the 25m pool shell itself, which has since been replaced, leading to a minor delay. While some residents previously called for the project to include expanding the pool to a full 50m Olympic offering, despite the replacement, the Shire said the cost was prohibitive. The Shire has sought to restrain the overall budget amid strong cost escalation pressures for major projects Statewide. The project was majority-funded by an $8 million loan. Shire waste and major projects Manager Chris Yates said key works were completed before heavy rainfall arrived. “Because of their efforts, the first fix electrical and plumbing works are now being completed, and intermediate steel structural works are being installed,” Mr Yates said. “It’s terrific to see construction progress despite finding further deterioration to the existing pool shell during demolition earlier in the year. “The pool shell had reached the end of its usable life and has now been replaced due to the nature of the concealed damage. “The remediation works have been accounted for within the project’s contingency budget and the new shell will ensure structural integrity, serving our aquatic users well into the future.” Next month, main project contractor BYTE Construct will install the remaining structures and roof cover over the children’s lagoon and new cafe, after which exterior walls would be completed.