Shire of Augusta-Margaret River says Aquatic Centre overhaul is on track for October

The Shire of Augusta-Margaret River says the overhaul of its recreation and aquatic centre remains on track for completion later this year. The Shire’s waste and major projects manager Chris Yates said the re-roofing project was expected to wrap up by September or October. “Major demolition and dismantling of the old structure is nearing completion with construction of the new structure commencing in the next couple of weeks,” he said earlier this month. “The Shire is working with the contractor to achieve a September/October 2023 completion, which will be partly dependent upon commissioning of the new facility and filling/heating of the refurbished pool.” The $9.325 million project, funded with an $8 million loan, would see a simplified skillion roof for the entire structure, accessibility features, a new cafe, a timber-look deck and outdoor play space, new toilets, seating, public art, and refurbishment of the existing changerooms. The work was undertaken because the centre’s roof had reached the end of its life and needed urgent replacement. The Times previously reported some users wanted the pool increased to 50m during the project and while it was out of action for 12 months, and some sporting groups also sought changes to increase the Recreation Centre’s overall capacity due a squeeze on playing spaces. While the Shire ruled out expanding the pool and taking on the costs involved, a complicating factor in the project deadline could be additional works confirmed for the project during a special council meeting held on December 7 last year. Councillors were told early work revealed a raft of issues requiring extra attention. The biggest items involved the pool shell itself, with design firm Gresley Abas noting the entire pool structure and pipework, as well as the vinyl liner, needed to be replaced. Reviewing the integrity of steel structural supports, changeroom designs and a fire safety framework were also identified.