By Cameron Weston
REGULAR users of the Altona Swim and Leisure Centre in Altona North are unhappy with a proposed new design for the pool.
Brett Woods from the Altona Swimming Club said members had expressed their concerns to Hobsons Bay City Council in numerous letters and had two face-to-face meetings but felt their concerns were not taken seriously. However, Hobsons Bay mayor Carl Marsich, who has spoken to concerned club members, said the council had undertaken a “comprehensive consultation program with all stakeholders”, during the design process.
Swimming club members are concerned about “dangerous design points” at each end of the pool, Mr Woods said, as the pool deck was designed to be flush with the water surface, creating a dangerous edge on which swimmers could strike their arms or ankles.
But Mr Woods said lack of spectator seating was the most serious design flaw and one that would create significant problems for local groups.
“This new design is actually going to make the venue unworkable for schools in the future.
“They will force swimmers in the area to use other council’s facilities for competitive swim meets.”
Mr Woods said the redevelopment of the centre had focused on the gymnasium facilities, which are expected to be the biggest single income stream, at the expense of the pool design.
Cr Marsich defended the design of the pool, saying the “wet-deck” design was a standard design feature of many new pools under construction.
“Council considers the design to be safe,” he said.
Cr Marsich said the design of the new pool had been a “balancing act” to ensure that all groups using the pool were looked after.
He said the pool was not specifically designed with competitive events in mind, as these were a relatively small part of the pool’s function, but arrangements were in place to cater for such events.
“The pool is not designed for competitions as such but we have the provision to bring in additional seating,” he said.
Cr Marsich indicated that the current design would not change.
“Council does not consider to necessary to change the design … and is satisfied that the redevelopment meets all necessary safety and building requirements.”
