Bluewater pool to reopen earlier than expected
Published on 30 June 2020
Colac Otway Shire Council is hopeful the Bluewater pool will reopen earlier than expected following maintenance works completed by a local contractor over the past weekend.
Council’s General Manager Infrastructure and Leisure Services, Tony McGann, said local contractor Pipeline Fabrications had removed the ceiling quicker than expected.
“Our local contractor has done an amazing job and worked hard over the weekend to remove all of the ceiling above the Bluewater pool. The expert advice was that it was the ceiling that was posing a risk to users, so that was the problem,” Mr McGann said.
“The underside of the roof is aesthetically better than we expected. The problem was where the ceiling was hung off the roof, some connections had become corroded over time. To remove the ceiling is a quick, safe fix so it doesn’t present a problem anymore.
“Once this is done, we can go in and clean the pool and we expect to have the facility reopened to the public Monday, obviously operating with COVID restrictions in place.
“Safety is always our number one priority and we’re really pleased that we’ll be able to deliver a safe and workable pool facility earlier than expected.
“The booking system Council had in place to limit the number of people using the pool at any one time to adhere to current COVID restrictions will recommence when the pool reopens.
Mr McGann said patrons can expect the pool hall to look different for a while
“The roof looks a little different without the ceiling in place, but the most important thing is that works have been being carried out ensure the facility is safe.
“Council will operate the Bluewater pool with the roof in its current state and roof replacement works will be carried out in the 2020-2021 financial year.
“Council was disappointed we had to close the pool to undertake the works, however we’re really pleased with the positive outcome and look forward to welcoming swimmers back to Bluewater as soon as possible.”
The gym and childcare facilities at Bluewater Leisure Centre remain open with patrons asked to contact Bluewater on 5232 9551 to book a session.