Work has begun on the $4.2 million West Wallsend Swim Centre expansion, with a new indoor learn-to-swim pool set to open next year.
Lake Macquarie City Council Mayor, Adam Shultz and Member for Hunter, Dan Repacholi turned the first sod on the project to mark the official start of works.
Mayor Shultz said the expansion would cater for the rapid growth of the centre’s catchment area, particularly around West Wallsend and Cameron Park.
“Our Aquatic Facilities Strategy identified upgrading West Wallsend Swim Centre as a high priority, so it’s fantastic to see boots on the ground and work commencing,” he said.
“Learning to swim is a survival skill – an essential when you live in Lake Macquarie. Once the project is complete, the centre will be much better equipped to teach those valuable lessons to people of all ages and abilities for many years to come.”
The new learn-to-swim pool will cater for children from six months of age upwards, featuring an accessible pool ramp, accessible bathrooms and showers, and a new lifeguard area for better surveillance.
It will also provide a space for community programs like A Splash of Colour, which teaches women from culturally diverse backgrounds how to swim, and Rainbow Club, which focuses on swim skills for children with learning difficulties.
“This project is all about giving locals the facilities they deserve,” said Mr Repacholi.
“This is a great outcome for West Wallsend and the surrounding community. We all know how important it is for people of all ages to learn to swim, and this new indoor pool will mean more lessons, all year round, rain, hail or shine.
“The Albanese Government is committed to backing projects that make a real difference in people’s lives. This expansion will strengthen community programs, deliver better facilities, and help meet the needs of a growing population.”
