THE cost of the planned aquatic centre in Mordialloc has blown out by another $8 million. The new swimming centre will be mostly paid for by Kingston Council ratepayers. After an initial report in 2021 estimated it would cost between $40 million and $50 million, the cost was later revised to $79.2 million. Kingston Council confirmed last week that its latest design would cost up to $87.5 million to build.
The pool will be built at 1-7 Wells Road in Mordialloc, opposite Jack Grut Reserve. Kingston Council paid $14.6 million for the land.
In a statement, Kingston Council said that additions to the original proposal were the cause of the budget blow-out. “Delivering this important investment in the health and wellbeing of Kingston was initially estimated at a total project cost of $79.2M, however further detailed design, which included the addition of a future expansion zone to the health and fitness spaces and increased structural stability with the piling depth extended to 30 metres, increased the project value,” council said. “Following a competitive procurement process we have confirmed a total project cost of $87.5M, which also included sufficient contingency allowances to accommodate the continued volatility of the construction market.”
A builder has been contracted to build the new swimming centre. ADCO has been appointed to undertake the project, which will include the construction of a 50 metre multi-purpose lap swimming pool, a learn to swim pool, a warm water and exercise pool, and a leisure pool. The new centre will also host a spa, sauna, and steam room, a gym and fitness section, and a café.
Kingston mayor Jenna Davey-Burns said “over 10,600 community submissions across six stages of consultation have helped shape the new facility.” “The community has been absolutely incredible in providing us with a clear and ambitious vision for the new centre – we truly have a project that is very much by the people and for the people. Whether it’s our kids learning to swim and splashing around with mates, people who love to keep fit in the gym or get great benefit from warm water exercise, or hopefully even some of our future Olympic stars, it will cater for everyone.”
The federal government is spending $20 million on the new centre, and the rest of the cost will be covered by Kingston Council. Consultation took place earlier this year to determine the centre’s name – an announcement is expected soon. The pool is scheduled to open in 2026.
First published in the Chelsea Mordialloc Mentone News – 31 July 2024