MORE than 200 submissions have been made to Rockdale Council on its proposed $26.8 million upgrade of Bexley Swimming Centre.
The proposal includes a two-storey complex with a 50-metre outdoor pool and a 25-metre indoor pool, a program pool and a leisure pool on the ground floor, as well as a gymnasium, amenities, creche and kiosk.
Bexley Pool reference group spokesman Mark Hanna said while the proposal was more substantial than initially envisaged, it was carefully considered and would meet the community's needs for generations to come.
"The estimated cost will be repaid many times over through improved health, well-being, water safety and social benefits, from babies through to mature and disabled citizens," Mr Hanna said.
"The 100,000 residents of Rockdale deserve and need a facility like the one being proposed.
"The capacity to conduct year-round learn-to-swim programs spotlights just one of the many benefits this facility will bestow."
But Kim Deacon of Rockdale said many residents just wanted the pool fixed, rather than "grand designs" the council could not afford.
Ms Deacon said the proposed could be scaled back by $20 million — with just the provision of an upgraded 50-metre pool that did not leak.
"People just want the pool fixed so we can swim all year round. Why do we need another gym? We already have nine of them in Rockdale," she said. "The council could end up closing the site altogether because it is not viable.
"How can the council justify that money on a swimming pool complex? Are they going to put our rates up? What's happened to the proposed new city library and other public works?"
Sally Edsall of Arncliffe said the cost of the pool was a long-term investment and the improvements would make it a year-round venue that would be a landmark for Rockdale.
"I have used Bexley Pool since it was opened. I observe families picnicking, children and adults learning to swim, teens having wholesome fun. I went there as a school kid. My son did swimming lessons there," Ms Edsall said.
"Now in middle age, it is the best place for the kind of weight-supported exercise my doctor and physiotherapist recommend.
"People will make Bexley Pool a day out, which means other businesses, like cafes and restaurants, will be encouraged to the area."
Rockdale Council opened up the proposed upgrade of the pool to public consultation on December 13. Public submissions close on March 2.
HAVE YOUR SAY
Further information sessions at the centre will be held 2pm-5pm on February 8, 15 and 22.
A report on the outcome of the public consultation process is due in March.
The council said the new concept design could bring 541,000 visits a year to the pool which now attracts 130,000 visits a year.
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