Funding secures 50 metre pool redevelopment at Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre

An additional $4.9 million grant from the NSW Government will ensure that the long-awaited redevelopment of the Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre (MAAC) can go ahead.

With sub surface soil issues having led to a "catastrophic" structural failure of the facility’s former pool, the new funding will ensure that $16.3 million project to deliver a new 50-metre pool, grandstand and clubhouse, a refurbished heating plant and construction of a chemical storage shed can proceed.

The two existing hot pools, program pool and wellness pool will be upgraded, along with the kiosk building, wellness centre and gym improvements.

The reconstruction has been years in the making, ever since a number of issues arose following the redevelopment of the facility in 2012.

Northern Tablelands state member Adam Marshall joined Moree Plains Shire Mayor Mark Johnson to make the announcement on Wednesday.

Advising that the project would reinvigorate one of the town's leading visitor attractions, Marshall stated "MAAC not only provides health benefits to the local community, but it is also a linchpin for Moree's visitor economy.

"During normal operations the centre has attracted more than 200,000 visits from locals, domestic and international travellers annually. I'm sure the town's business sector will welcome the financial benefits resulting from the full resumption of visitors to the MAAC's healing waters."

Mayor Johnson said the Council hoped the project would go to tender in August, after Councillors approve the project in full at its July meeting, adding "the lack of a swimming pool has acted as a significant barrier to swimming participation across the shire, reducing health benefits, water safety skills and tourism opportunities.

Council expects to start construction at the end of the summer swimming season next February.

The build will take the best part of a year with the opening slated for Christmas 2023.

Image: Plans for the new pool being inspected by Moree Plains Shire Mayor Mark Johnson, Councillor Mekayla Cochrane, Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall, Councillor Kelly James, acting Pool Manager Joe Beaulieu and Deputy Mayor Susannah Pearse. Credit: Moree Plains Shire Council.