City of Greater Geelong councillors have awarded Kane Constructions Pty Ltd the contract to construct stage 1 of the North Bellarine Aquatic and Leisure Centre, with work on the $15.5 million project getting underway in the New Year.
The North Bellarine Aquatic and Leisure Centre is a staged project beginning with the delivery of the $15.5 million outdoor 50-metre pool jointly funded by the Australian government and the City of Greater Geelong.
Mayor Stephanie Asher said awarding the tender to construct the eight lane outdoor heated pool is a significant milestone for the local community, with an opening expected in late 2022 or early 2023.
“Kane are experienced contractors and offer good value for money to deliver this long-awaited facility,” the mayor said.
“For too long the Bellarine community has had less access to aquatic facilities than other areas of Greater Geelong, so we’re thrilled that construction can get underway in the New Year.
“Kane will use local subcontractors and source a large proportion of goods and services through local businesses.”
Senator for Victoria, Sarah Henderson, congratulated Kane Constructions and the City of Greater Geelong on reaching this next important milestone.
“In partnership with the City of Greater Geelong, the Morrison government is focused on getting things done and delivering for our community,” she said.
“Congratulations to Kane Constructions on being awarded the construction tender. Supported by $10 million from the Morrison Government, I am delighted that construction of stage 1 of the North Bellarine Aquatic Centre will soon be underway.
“The 50-metre outdoor heated pool will be a wonderful asset for local residents, including thousands of students who attend local schools.”
The design of the stage 1 outdoor facility incorporated community feedback and was completed by Mantric Architecture in September 2021. It features all abilities change facilities, an entry pavilion, a kiosk, tiered covered seating, a landscaped community lawn area with umbrellas, more than 100 trees, and parking for 60 cars.
A scoping study showed the outdoor facility is expected to be visited by more than 34,000 people each year. Usage of the outdoor pool will grow steadily, with the population of the Bellarine Peninsula forecast to grow by 40 per cent to approximately 70,000 residents by 2041.
Deputy Mayor Trent Sullivan encouraged community members to also provide feedback on the proposal for a complementary indoor facility.
“We encourage everyone to provide feedback via our ‘Have Your Say’ page so we can keep working to secure funding to construct an indoor pool,” the deputy mayor said.
“The proposed indoor facilities in stage 2 featuring a spa, sauna and steam room would particularly support the health and wellbeing of senior residents and people with disabilities.”
Kane Constructions director Geoff Purcell said the company was proud to be awarded the contract.
“We are thrilled that we have been selected to deliver this important facility for the Bellarine community,” he said.
“Many of our staff, subcontractors and suppliers reside within the Bellarine Peninsula and are looking forward to not only constructing the new Aquatic Centre, but also becoming end users.”
Feedback on the stage 2 proposal closes on Tuesday 4 January 2021.
