Community to have say on new pool plans

27 April 2017

Waipa residents and ratepayers will formally be asked to have their say on revised plans for the Cambridge pool.

Last week Waipa District Council indicated it was rethinking the pool redevelopment following community feedback and massive growth projections for the town. Yesterday Council confirmed it would formally consider a $16.5 million project instead of the $9.9 million pool redevelopment approved in its 10-Year Plan.

The additional money would allow for an upgrade of the existing outdoor pool, a new 10-lane indoor pool and learner's pool, a hydrotherapy pool, spa and sauna and a children's splash pad. There would be increased seating and a community room as well as car-parking, roads and landscaping.

If it goes ahead, Cambridge and Maungatautari ward ratepayers would largely foot the bill via an extra $24 per year (maximum) on their rates, on top of what was already projected in the 10-Year Plan. Ratepayers across the rest of the Waipa district would also contribute, but only at levels originally indicated.

At yesterday's Council meeting approval was given to begin the formal community consultation programme, required by law, around the pool proposal.

A document outlining what's proposed will be available from May 3 from Council offices and libraries and online at www.waipadc.govt.nz/haveyoursay. Those who wish to have a copy posted or emailed to them should call Council on 07 872 0030.

Three public information sessions will be held at the Cambridge to discuss the proposal, all at the Council office in Wilson St. Sessions will be held on Thursday 4 May (4pm-7pm), Monday 8 May (1pm-3pm) and Wednesday 10 May (4pm-7pm). A session will also be held in the Te Awamutu library on Tuesday 9 May (4pm-7pm).

Feedback on the pool proposal closes at 5pm on Wednesday 31 May.

For more information, contact: Jeanette Tyrrell 027 507 7599