“This is the largest and most exciting capital works project in Maroondah’s history,” said Mayor of Maroondah Councillor Alex Makin.

These comments were made as plans for the new Regional Aquatic and Leisure Centre in Ringwood were unveiled at Maroondah City Council’s Meeting last night.

“The new $48 million aquatic and leisure centre will be a landmark project in the region, bringing all that is great and new in aquatic learning, play and health facilities and combining it with a new two level leisure and gymnasium facility,” said Cr Makin.

The aquatic facilities will include a new 50 metre, 10 lane indoor pool, warm water program pool, dedicated learn to swim pool, extensive waterplay area including large water slides, play pool and toddler pool.

“With plans to open in late 2013, the facility is also planned to have a brand new high diving tower and unique dry diving training facilities offering diving athletes state and national level training opportunities,” said Cr Makin. “We are anticipating significant Federal and State funding to assist with this part of the project.”

The announcement for the new Regional Aquatic and Leisure Centre follows extensive research undertaken by Council as part of the State Government funded Ringwood Aquatic Centre Feasibility Study.

Expert industry consultants, SGL Group, were commissioned to complete the study, which began in August last year and included extensive consultation with key user groups of the facility, wider community consultation, and aquatic trend reviews.

“Unfortunately, we cannot build the new without first demolishing the old. It is intended to close the current Ringwood Aquatic Centre and commence demolition in twelve months time, in May 2011, with plans to open the completely new facility late in 2013,” said Maroondah Chief Executive Officer, Mr Frank Dixon.

“It is important that Council looks to the future to ensure that we meet the expectations and needs of the Maroondah community. A new regional leisure and aquatic facility is an exciting project that will generate enormous community benefit, and ensure significant leisure and aquatic facilities for the Maroondah community into the next 50 years,” said Mr Dixon.

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