Gladstone swimming pool will remain open as one of the four public swimming pools in Kempsey Shire.
Noting the age, cost and industry standards, the Aquatic Strategy presented to Council recommended rationalising the number of Council pools and proposed the closure of the Macleay Memorial Pool in Gladstone.
Noting the concerns of the community, and the need for further investigation and long-term planning, an amended recommendation deferred the decision to close the Gladstone pool. A subsequent report will be presented to Council following further investigation into a longer-term strategy that considers suitability and sustainability of our pools, developed in collaboration with the Lower Macleay community.
The recommendation asked Councillors to note the results of the investigation and engagement into the Aquatic Strategy to date and proceed with the implementation of the high priority and short-term actions highlighted in the strategy. The revised recommendation also required a systematic review of swimming pool condition audit recommendations be undertaken by Council officers and pool operators.
Kempsey Shire Council Mayor, Leo Hauville, acknowledged that the proposed closure of the Gladstone pool was strongly opposed by some members of the community.
“The Gladstone community has presented a strong case that keeping the pool open is essential to the community’s wellbeing and safety, and that there are important heritage and community connections to the Memorial Pool,” said Cr Hauville.
“The fact that Councillors voted unanimously to adopt the new recommendation showed that both Council staff and Councillors have listened to the community on this matter and are committed to working together to find a sustainable outcome for our Shire’s pools.”
Peter Allen, Group Manager Commercial Business, said the Kempsey Shire Aquatic Strategy remains a good assessment of the aquatic infrastructure, services and community expectations and highlights the challenges faced by Council in maintaining aquatic assets and services in the medium to long term.
“We are pleased that many of the recommendations from the strategy have been adopted, allowing Council to continue to improve services and facilities and to plan for the future,” said Mr Allen.
“The community has indicated a strong desire for longer operating seasons, heated pools, and improved accessibility. The challenge remains for Council to decide how to manage the Shire’s four pools in a way that is cost effective and delivers the kinds of services and experiences that residents expect.”
The recommendation adopted by Council stated that certain high priority and short-term actions be implemented by staff, such as improving facility reporting to Council, establishing closer working relationships with operators to support delivery of programs and grant opportunities, conduct detailed investigations of the structural integrity of Kempsey pool, and investigate the heating of South West Rocks pool, among others, which will be priorities for the new year.
