New pool complex confirmed for Cambridge

13 June 2017

Waipa District Council has confirmed it will go ahead with the more expensive option for the Cambridge Pool project.

The agreed plans mean the Cambridge Pool complex will include 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 will be increased seating and a community room as well as car-parking and landscaping.

Last month Council asked the Waipa community for feedback on two options for the Cambridge Pool development. Council asked whether or not to stick with the $9.9 million option approved in the 10-Year Plan or to increase the budget to $16.5 million and add new features.

More than 700 people responded, with 80% favouring the more expensive option.

In response to feedback gained through the consultation process, Council also agreed to provide additional funding to upgrade the area surrounding the outdoor 50m pool and to provide stacking window sliders which essentially allows for more temporary seating for spectators.

These additional items come with a cost of $185,300 taking the total cost of the pool development to $16.685m.

For Mayor Jim Mylchreest, today's decision is a huge milestone for the project.

This project has been a long time coming and today's decision is a reflection of our community's wishes.

The new plans and the additional features means we will have a facility that the whole community can enjoy - now and into the future. We've been told to do it once, and do it properly and that's exactly what we are going to do.

Now that the scope has been confirmed, design of the pool complex can be finalised and construction of the pool is set to begin early next year. Additional features may be added to the complex in future years if funding becomes available.

For more information, contact: Natalie Palmer, 027 807 3174