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Council Endorses $2.6 Million Ryan Mitchell Swim Centre Project following Community Consultation

Published 21st January 2022
Port Augusta City Council have endorsed the $2.6 million Ryan Mitchell Swim Centre upgrade construction project with new water splash play area at the January 18 2022 Council meeting.

Port Augusta City Council have endorsed the $2.6 million Ryan Mitchell Swim Centre upgrade construction project with new water splash play area at the January 18 2022 Council meeting.

Following community consultation on the proposed concept for the upgrade to the Ryan Mitchell Swim Centre, Port Augusta City Council endorsed the construction project which includes replacing all of the pipes, pumps, and filters to the 50-year-old pool, plus upgrading the pool shell to include a ramp for people with impaired mobility to enter the water with dignity, new permanent steps into the pool, and to re-line the pool to end persistent leaking.

In addition, the Swim Centre will feature a new water splash play area separate to any existing pools.

“Approximately 75% of the 350 people who responded to the public consultation undertaken last year requested the water splash play area to be separate.” Mayor Brett Benbow stated.

“The consultation strongly supported the water splash play area but also gave valuable insights that the original concept should not be linked to the existing toddler pool, that the water splash play elements should be more entertaining than the concept presented, and include some shade”. Mayor Brett Benbow stated.

3D model shown in an oblique overhead view of the proposed new mechanical building, alterations to the large pool to allow for an entrance ramp, the existing medium pool, and the previously proposed combined toddler pool and splash area.
3D model showing the new mechanical building, the alteration to the pool, the pipes, and the previous concept with the water play area and the toddler pool together. The new concept will have these separated.
Illustration of proposed combined toddler pool and splash area showing children playing with various fountains, bucket spills, bubblers and hoses
Visual concept presented to the community and Council for consideration.

At the 18 January Council meeting Council endorsed the revised project to include this feedback, including funding shade for the water play area in the future if the current budget does not permit. The Port Augusta City Council Infrastructure team are now exploring with the consultant how the water splash play concept can be amended to include more exciting elements.

Feedback from the community supported shade not only over the water splash play area but also over other areas of the Swim Centre, feedback also highlighted needing improved changing facilities, introduction of another lane on the pool, and for a heated all-year enclosed pool. This feedback will be considered for future upgrades to the facility.

For further information please contact Council’s Media and Communications Officer on (08) 86419100

JOHN BANKS
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
21/01/2022