Residents wanting to ensure Batemans Bay always has a 50-metre pool have been urged to “pack the pool” on Saturday, November 25, at 10:30am. Pack the Pool organizers want to show how small a 25-metre lap pool is, by packing as many people as possible into half the existing 50-metre pool. Spokesperson Andrew Belk said the promo was light hearted, but the message was serious. “There are serious concerns by multiple stakeholders that the 25-metre pool slated for the proposed new aquatic centre is inadequate, given the growth projections for this region,” he said. “As well as short-changing our current generation, we are concerned that, within a short time, ratepayers will need to find the money to make costly alterations. “We appreciate Eurobodalla Shire Council indicating there is potential to upgrade in the future, however, we feel a better approach would be to do our best to build that capacity now. We ask all government players to look forward boldly with vision.” Mr Belk said the protest reflected a wider concern about the suitability of the current design for the proposed arts and aquatic centre in the Mackay Park precinct. “We are all excited by the prospects of a new facility; unfortunately, many stakeholders who were invited to give input feel they have not been listened to,” He said. “It’s vital that not only do we have a facility fit for purpose, but also the people who are likely to drive its success - the sporting groups, swim club, cultural and arts groups - have ownership.” He said Saturday was the first of several peaceful summer protests planned. Visit Facebook page packbatemansbaypool or phone 0434 512 513.
Residents wanting to ensure Batemans Bay always has a 50-metre pool have been urged to “pack the pool” on Saturday, November 25, at 10:30am.
Pack the Pool organizers want to show how small a 25-metre lap pool is, by packing as many people as possible into half the existing 50-metre pool.
Spokesperson Andrew Belk said the promo was light hearted, but the message was serious.
“There are serious concerns by multiple stakeholders that the 25-metre pool slated for the proposed new aquatic centre is inadequate, given the growth projections for this region,” he said.
“As well as short-changing our current generation, we are concerned that, within a short time, ratepayers will need to find the money to make costly alterations.
“We appreciate Eurobodalla Shire Council indicating there is potential to upgrade in the future, however, we feel a better approach would be to do our best to build that capacity now. We ask all government players to look forward boldly with vision.”
Mr Belk said the protest reflected a wider concern about the suitability of the current design for the proposed arts and aquatic centre in the Mackay Park precinct.
“We are all excited by the prospects of a new facility; unfortunately, many stakeholders who were invited to give input feel they have not been listened to,” He said.
“It’s vital that not only do we have a facility fit for purpose, but also the people who are likely to drive its success - the sporting groups, swim club, cultural and arts groups - have ownership.”
He said Saturday was the first of several peaceful summer protests planned. Visit Facebook page packbatemansbaypool or phone 0434 512 513.
