Redevelopment of Winchelsea Swimming Pool is continuing, with demolition of former facilities underway and expected to be complete by the end of March.
Construction of replacement 25-metre and leisure pools and a new zero-depth splash park will start as soon as demolition is complete and take several months.
The redevelopment will also include renewal of pool concourses and drainage and construction of a new amenities building at the south-east end of the site, creating a more central entry point off Barwon Terrace and better connection with adjoining Adventure Park.
The much-loved former pool had reached the end of its serviceable life after having provided summer refreshment, exercise and fun for families and visitors since 1963.
Input from community engagement and a Community Reference Group has helped inform designs for the redevelopment and decide on elements for the splash park.
Work on stage two of Winchelsea’s Barwon River Loop is also progressing, with construction expected to start mid-2024.
Stage two north of the Princes Highway bluestone bridge will link with the previously completed stage one to create a two-kilometre path connecting Winchelsea’s four quadrants, better connecting the community with the river environment.
A pedestrian bridge will replace an existing culvert crossing near Armytage Street, and viewing platforms will be installed on both banks of the river between the two bridges.
The western bank of the Barwon River is Eastern Maar Country, and the eastern bank is Wadawurrung Country.
A Cultural Heritage Management Plan is now in place for stage two and Council is working with Eastern Maar Gulidjan artist Ebony Hickey and Wadawurrung artist Billy-Jay O’Toole who have each designed artwork to feature on steel cut panels on the viewing platforms.
Cr Adrian Schonfelder said the two projects would bring health and wellbeing benefits for Winchelsea community.
“Our pool has been such a valued asset for fun-seeking families and exercise-seeking individuals from across our district for such a long time and this redevelopment will ensure that these activities will continue well into the future,” Cr Schonfelder said.
“Stage one of the river loop has proven very popular with community members and visitors, and I am sure that extension of the loop and addition of a second pedestrian bridge will be very welcome, helping to improve all abilities access to our beautiful river environment.
“We thank community members for their input on these important projects and look forward to having the meaningful works of artists Ebony and Billy-Jay reflecting on age-old First Nations connection with this Country.”
Visit surfcoast.vic.gov.au/WinchProjects for Winchelsea project updates.
