Feasibility study undertaken for Mudgee indoor pool

A feasibility study into the viability of an indoor pool in Mudgee is being undertaken by Mid-Western Regional Council. 

Mid-Western Regional Council General Manager Brad Cam has this week advised that it is investigating such a facility following the positive feedback received in a survey of residents.

Cam advised "Council undertakes comprehensive community engagement every four years to inform the Community Plan which sets out the community's vision for the future - where we are, where we want to be and how we will get there.

"A review of the plan was undertaken in 2016/17 with more than 2,500 people taking part in a variety of consultation and community engagement activities including telephone surveys, online surveys, community roadshow, postcard exercise, workshops and direct mail.

"Respondents to this engagement ranked an indoor aquatic centre as the second highest rated priority project."

The feasibility study which is to be conducted by consultancy firm RMP and Associates, will assess the market for an all year-round pool, the current site, and the financial implications.

The study has the following objectives:

• Undertake an assessment of the current market and the latent market if an indoor all year-round pool or pools were built.
• To review the current Mudgee pool site, conduct a site analysis and identify the most suitable site for the facility and the possibility of the integration of a proposed indoor facility.
• The study is to include alternative options with a clear conclusion on the financial implications of building and operating an indoor pool.
• The consultant’s report is to outline all assumptions, data, options and costs.
• The study is to include an assessment of the current venue designs and functionality and provide a guide for the future development and refurbishment of the Aquatic Facilities.

Cam added "the purpose of the study is to inform Council on the viability of an indoor pool, from both an economic and social consideration.

"Obviously the primary benefit to an indoor pool would be year-round access to a swimming pool particularly during winter months.

"However, Council must consider the benefits against the financial implications of such a facility. Council works hard to balance community expectations with available resources to provide desired community facilities."

Other Central West locations, including Bathurst, Lithgow and Orange already have indoor aquatic centres. 

Construction of the Mudgee Aquatic Playground is already underway, and will include water slides, splash pads, tipping buckets, spray cannons and fountains, all located within the pool facility.

Over 60,500 visits to the Mudgee Pool occurred during the current swimming season, with around 2,200 season passes sold.

A final report on the feasibility study with findings is expected to be provided to Council in June/July 2019.

Image of Mudgee outdoor pool