THE future of a cherished community facility is brighter following a meeting between Wattle Range Council and the Save the Nangwarry Pool committee on Monday night.
A proposed strategy to revamp the pool through a combination of paid work and voluntary labour has been put forward after residents have banded together to save the facility from destruction.
Wattle Range Council chief executive officer Ben Gower commended the committee for its efforts working with a budget of $150,000 and devising the strategic plan.
The council settled on a four-part motion sparing the pool from immediate demolition in May due to a strong display of community spirit swaying elected members.
The first part of the motion instructed council to consider placing $150,000 towards the 2017/18 budget for works on the facility.
Part two stated quotes sought by the council were to be brought back for consideration prior to a decision to proceed with capital works.
Part three stated quotes together with community funds needed to indicate the pool was able to be brought to a safe standard or it would proceed with demolition.
The final part of the motion stated the pool season would be limited to December to February.
Nangwarry Pool committee member Karyn Prelc said deputy mayor and ward councillor Rob Dycer was confident with the affordability after further investigation into potential works and the council was pleased with the proposed combination of paid work and volunteer input.
Cr Dycer said the meeting was positive and the process was running smoothly, with tenders to be considered in the coming weeks.
Tenders for repair work are being prepared and are set to be discussed at the monthly council meeting in September.
“If the tenders come in well then all the plans will go ahead to open the pool for the community to enjoy,” Cr Dycer said.
Kalangadoo resident and committee member Darren Ousey will view the tender scope with Mr Gower to ensure the best cost effective balance of paid and available volunteer contribution.
Ms Prelc said the meeting concluded with an optimistic and enthusiastic discussion about additions to the pool, including a tree windbreak, barbecue area and further aspects to enhance the pool.
“The area is going to be an exciting resource for students’ school activities, family opportunities and hopefully investment to create disability access,” Ms Prelc said.
She said grants will also be explored in the future and final recommendations will be discussed at the monthly council meeting in September.
