Planning for Pool upgrades

Planning is progressing behind the scenes on the Kennedy Regiment Memorial Pool upgrades, following the initial community consultation.

Whilst Council was successful in receiving $7.8M from the Queensland Government through the Resources Community Infrastructure Fund (RCIF) to replace the 51-year-old Kennedy Regiment Memorial Pool, the size of the project means that there are a number of factors that need to be considered.  

Council is currently preparing draft concept plans for the proposed facility, taking into account initial feedback received from the community via a survey conducted late last year.

Councillor Kate Hastie said it is great to receive feedback and gain insight into what the community ultimately would like to see in the new facility.

“We are very fortunate to be given the opportunity to upgrade this facility, which has needed major repairs and upgrades for quite some time, and we need to ensure it is done right.

“Whilst not every idea can be incorporated, due to varying factors such as location or budget, Council certainly gained insight from responses received,” said Councillor Hastie.

One of the next steps in the process, to ensure all due diligence is undertaken and ensure community expectations can be met and there is economic benefit to the Region, Council will be preparing a detailed Business Case to support the project.

A Business Case is used to provide decision makers, stakeholders and the public with a management tool for evidence based and transparent decision making around the options for the pool upgrade.

When a Business Case is planned and managed effectively, it dramatically increases the likelihood of the project's success.

“Council is very excited to deliver this project to the community but needs to ensure all information is considered, proper planning is undertaken, and all processes are followed.

“At the end of the day, we want to ensure the new facility, when built, is the best value for money and incorporates as much of the community needs and wants as is possible,” continued Cr Hastie.

To find out more about the Kennedy Regiment Memorial Pool redevelopment, visit Council’s ‘Have Your Say’ portal at https://haveyoursay.charterstowers.qld.gov.au/