Building contractors have advised Yarra Ranges Council that Monbulk Aquatic Centre pool is expected to reopen on 1 September, coinciding with the start of Spring.
The roof of the aquatic centre was damaged during the June 2021 storm event, resulting in some of the facilities being unusable and a temporary closure of the pool itself.
Yarra Ranges Chandler Ward Councillor, David Eastham, said he knows the closure has been a frustration for the Monbulk community, and is glad to hear of the expected opening date.
“We know the important role this facility plays in the health and wellbeing of our residents so to have this reopening in time for Spring is great news,” Cr Eastham said.
“It is unfortunate that the pool had to be closed for so long, but this work to repair the centre has also meant that we’ve reduced the risk of any additional future works being required, by addressing any underlying issues now and minimising any future disruptions to patrons.”
Repair work at the centre has included removing and repairing the roof, installing new air conditioning ducts and retiling the pool.
Before September, the pool will be refilled and reheated and the building will receive a fresh coat of paint.
Belgravia Area Manager Darren Allen said the team at Monbulk Aquatic Centre are looking forward to welcoming the public back next month.
“We’re delighted that the pool, group fitness studio and creche can reopen with all the repair work completed,” Darren said.
“Behind the scenes work will continue with the plant room and mechanical services that will take some further time to complete. We do ask for the community to stay connected with us to stay informed of any changes to services while the works are completed.”
“The centre is a really important part of the community, and we know that by the number of calls and emails we have gotten over the last year asking us when the pool was going to reopen.”
“It is unfortunate that the repairs were taking place during the pandemic with multiple lockdowns, which affected workers and caused delays in getting materials, but I am glad that Council has been able to provide support to us throughout the construction phase and that we are now at a place where we can reopen the pool for the Monbulk community to enjoy. So to the wider Monbulk community, I say – get your togs ready, here we come.”
Final touch-up works will be completed in coming weeks before the 25-metre pool is completely repaired and ready for swimmers from 1 September.
