A raft of improvements are set to be made to a 25-year-old swimming facility, with works to start within two years.
A draft upgrade plan has been developed to modernise the Noosa Aquatic Centre at Girraween Court, Sunshine Beach.
Noosa Council’s sport and active lifestyles manager Brad Chalmers said the ageing venue needed to be enhanced to cater for swimmers for years to come.
“We want to ensure the current facility continues to meet modern standards and the evolving needs of our community over the next two to three decades,” he said.
“Without proactive planning and investment the facility will deteriorate, leading to higher repair and improvement costs and limiting our ability to provide the community with a fit-for-purpose and future-ready asset.”
Mr Chalmers said the draft plan was created through a needs assessment and demand analysis, industry trends and input from key stakeholders and user groups at the facility.
The draft plan includes an upgraded 50m pool, including a new filtration system, dividing infrastructure to enable multi-use and a new shade structure to the northern end.
It also includes: a potential long-term multi-purpose warm water pool; new and upgraded inclusive changerooms and amenities; upgraded water play elements; upgraded, larger creche, gym and retail space; upgraded administration and cafe building; new wellness hub including allied health rooms, exercise studio, courtyard and inclusive amenities; new multi-purpose room; new covered spectator grandstand and upgraded spectator shelters; new and upgraded car parking and bike storage; upgraded storage; upgraded signage and landscaping; new lifeguard office; new picnic/barbecue zone; and upgraded and additional solar panels.
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Essential works are expected to start within the next year or two and future upgrades will be staged progressively, guided by ongoing feasibility assessments, detailed planning and the availability of funding opportunities.
Council is considering community feedback on the draft plan after a consultation period finished in early March.
Residents and users were asked to “identify gaps, assess infrastructure needs and ensuring no significant elements have been overlooked”.
Mr Chalmers said the proposal was subject to change.
“This upgrade plan serves as a strategic guide to inform future decision-making at the centre,” he said.
“At this stage, no commitments have been made regarding specific changes or major upgrades.
“(But) it’s important to plan so we are well-placed to access grant funding opportunities when they become available.”
