New Cumberland Council looks to reduce subsidies at redeveloped Ruth Everuss Aquatic Centre

Sydney's new Cumberland Council is looking to reduce its subsidies for the management of its Ruth Everuss Aquatic Centre in Lidcombe over the next three years.

Awarding the contract for the management of the redeveloped facility to Belgravia Leisure for the next three years, the Council is looking to progressively reduce how it funds the Cente, from $514,000 in year one, to $403,000 in year two and $267,000 in year three.

Formed in May by the merger of parts of the former Auburn City, Parramatta City and Holroyd City councils, the new local authority is currently undertaking a review of all of its aquatic and recreation facilities.

Expected to be presented to Councillors in the coming weeks, this review will consider the future of ageing facilities including the Granville Swimming Centre as well as whether to proceed with the former Holroyd Council’s plans to develop a regional aquatic, recreation and sports facility.

Built in 1959, the Ruth Everuss Aquatic Centre redevelopment has set out to transform the swimming centre into a ‘state-of-the-art’ aquatic and recreation centre for a wide cross-section of the local community, while retaining its significant heritage fabric.

Originally scheduled to open in October, the redevelopment includes an outdoor 50 metre pool for swimming carnivals, lap swimming and springboard diving; a 30 metre x 25 metre for waterpolo, an interactive water play area and an extensive surrounding concourse with spectator grandstand.

Now set to open in January, the Centre’s indoor component includes an air-conditioned 25 metre pool, family leisure pool and program pool, new modern change rooms and a cafe/kiosk. All pools are to be heated and will provide access for people with disablity.

Belgravia Leisure’s contract to manage the facility includes a requirement for Council to approve the appointment of a head swimming coach for the Centre.

With NSW’s boundary changes impacting swimming pool management, the adjacent Parramatta City Council, which used to manage the Granville Swimming Centre, now owns the Epping Aquatic Centre.

This facility will re-open for the summer season from Saturday 1st October.

Click here for more information on the redevelopment.

Images: Plans for the redeveloped Ruth Everuss Aquatic Centre in Lidcombe (top) and the facility before redevelopment (below).

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