Mid-Western Regional Council voted to support the construction of an indoor swimming pool in Mudgee at their October meeting on Wednesday, however, a further report will be needed to investigate the possibility of developing the proposed facility at a different location.
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The submission period revealed that the most popular option was the approximately $9.25 million Option 3.
This would be to maintain the existing 50m exterior lap pool and add a new purpose-built, 25m indoor pool area that can be used all-year-round. And would be developed east of the existing facility in the adjoining Lawson Park area, with an entrance in Short Street at an existing access point in the historic wall.
However, a "dilemma" was noted in the report to Council, as to whether this would be taken on as a short or long term project.
The former could potentially see an indoor pool by the start of the 2021-22 season, with either the favoured Option 3 or the $7.10 million Option 2 - which is to; remove the existing leisure and program pool for a new 25m lap pool and new combined program/leisure pool; and enclosing the existing kiosk, change-rooms and administration area.
With a longer view being consideration of a new site, because Mudgee's current pool is aging. It was noted that this would avoid losing space in Lawson Park, as well as dodging the potential constraints of the proximity to the river.
Glen Willow was suggested by a number of respondents during the submission period, but not recommended in the report. Although, Stage 2 of the complex would see the movement of junior rugby league and cricket from Cahill Park - and that site is a possible option.
Council's Community Strategic Plan consultation rated an indoor pool highly among respondents to a survey of residents - second only to the new hospital.
