Big boost for Cambridge pool
2 August 2016
Cambridge's new pool project has taken a huge step forward with confirmation of a $300,000 donation from the Brian Perry Charitable Trust.
The announcement this week means $700,000 has already been raised towards a target of $2.1 million. Last September Trust Waikato contributed $400,000 to the project, leaving a total of $1.4 million to be raised.
Last year Waipa District Council agreed to spend $7.8 million towards a new pool complex including an indoor eight or 10-lane 25-meter pool with an integrated junior and learner's pool. The existing 50 meter outdoor pool will be retained and upgraded.
A master plan includes provision for a spa pool, sauna and outdoor splash park. Funding for this has not yet been allocated and relies on community fund-raising.
Brian Perry Charitable Trust chair Simon Perry said the Trust was very pleased to support the Cambridge pool project and applauded the council for "stepping up and making it happen".
"We know a pool has been a long time coming but things are now well on the way and we're happy to be part of that," he said.
"We've been involved with a number of community projects in Cambridge over the years and we've been impressed with the success of each one. The council and others involved have been able to build real partnerships to make things happen so everyone wins."
Perry noted the upgrade to the outdoor 50 meter pool plus a new 25 meter pool was identified as a priority project in Sport Waikato's regional facilities plan. The plan aims to maximise community investment in sports and recreation facilities across the greater Waikato region.
"For us that was important. We're aware that people outside of Cambridge and the wider Waipa district will also use the new pool, so see our grant as helping to providing wider benefits than just for those in Cambridge."
Waipa mayor Jim Mylchreest said he "couldn't be happier" when advised of the Perry decision but said there was a way to go and described the fund-raising environment as "challenging".
"Having Perry's and Trust Waikato in behind us already makes a huge difference because both organisations do their homework before providing any support. But I know, for example, that NZ Lotteries simply don't have the kinds of funds they used to have so that's potentially a big hole to fill.
Look, it will be a stretch but I'm absolutely confident that, because we have a supportive community, we will get there."
Construction of the new Cambridge pool complex is scheduled for 2018.
Media enquiries, contact Jeanette Tyrrell (on behalf of Council) 027 5077 599
