Mid-Western Regional Council is undertaking a feasibility study to assess the viability of an indoor pool in Mudgee.
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General Manager Brad Cam said that they're looking into such a facility after the idea rated highly among respondents to a survey of residents.
"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," he said.
"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 study - 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.
With the finding expected by June/July.
"The purpose of the study is inform Council on the viability of an indoor pool, from both an economic and social consideration," Mr Cam said.
"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."
Currently there are indoor aquatic centres at a number of Central West locations, including Bathurst, Lithgow and Orange.
Construction of the Mudgee Water Park - located within the pool facility - is underway, which will have water slides, splash pads, tipping buckets, spray cannons and fountains.
Over 60,500 visits to the Mudgee Pool occurred during the current swimming season, with around 2,200 season passes sold.
Local residents are encouraged to to join the conversation and provide their input by visiting yoursay.midwestern.nsw.gov.au/indoor-pool-feasibility-study
- Would you like to see a local indoor aquatic centre? Answer our poll at the Mudgee Guardian Facebook Page.