The “Fight for Batemans Bay’s 50m Pool” group, which has campaigned against the exclusion of a 50-metre pool from the Mackay Park precinct redevelopment, said there was “no excuse” for Eurobodalla Shire Council to proceed with its current plans.

On Friday, Gilmore MP Ann Sudmalis announced that $25 million had been assigned to the Regional Aquatic, Arts and Leisure Centre in Batemans Bay under the Regional Growth Fund.

Securing the funding is conditional on the council presenting a full business case to the government for review. Combined with $26 million in funding from the state government, this latest announcement brings the total to $51 million.

Group spokesperson Peter Coggan said the potential funding created an opportunity to continue the push for a 50 metre pool and he did not view it as a roadblock in their campaign.

“With more than $50 million in funding, there’s no reason and no excuse for not including a 50 metre pool and also considering increased seating capacity in the performing arts section of the Mackay Park complex because we’re looking to the future,” Mr Coggan said.

Fellow member Maureen Searson said it was important that the council develop an aquatic centre that was in keeping with a 2014 report that found the current facility to be a “valuable community asset”.

“We can’t see how the council can justify making a business case for an aquatic/arts centre and spending $51 million without a 50 metre pool. It makes no sense,” Ms Searson said.

Speaking on Friday, Eurobodalla Shire Mayor Liz Innes said she was “beyond excited” with the $25 million announcement.

“I’m certain the council’s strong and affordable business case that focuses on meeting the broadest community needs and our commitment to the project have impressed the federal government,” Cr Innes said.