City of Greater Geelong Council has appointed Kane Constructions to build its Northern Aquatic and Community Hub.
The landmark community facility is being jointly funded by the Greater Geelong Council ($44.84 million), the Victorian Government ($8.5 million) and the Federal Government ($8.26 million).
Tender submissions were evaluated by the City’s Tender Evaluation Panel and the preferred contractor was selected on the basis of their capability, experience, and ability to deliver this important infrastructure contract, Council said in a statement.
“The announcement is an important step towards delivery of the facility,” said Mayor, Stephanie Asher.
“The Northern Aquatic and Community Hub will deliver state-of-the-art facilities to support future growth and demand in the Northern Geelong growth corridor and make Norlane a regional destination for health and wellbeing experiences.
“I’m delighted that we are one step closer to delivering on this vital infrastructure to support this thriving community.”
Co-located with Barwon Health North, there will be a unique opportunity for the Northern Aquatic and Community Hub to explore complementary health and wellbeing services, the Mayor said.
The Northern Aquatic and Community Hub is anticipated to attract 600,000 visits every year, delivering $111 million in preventative health benefits during its first decade of operation alone.
“After many years spent advocating for it, I’m so pleased that residents in the north will be getting first-class aquatic, wellbeing and community facilities,” said Windermere Ward Councillor, Anthony Aitken.
“This landmark project is not only our best chance to address significant health issues experienced by residents in the north, it demonstrates to this community that we really do care – it’s a beacon of hope.
“The facility has been carefully designed with community and stakeholder engagement to support the diverse health, social, educational and recreational needs of our diverse community.”
Construction of the Northern Aquatic and Community Hub is expected to commence in early 2022 and be completed by late-2023.
