City of Palmerston with support from the Northern Territory Government, has announced the commencement of community consultation for a $15 million proposed revitalisation of Palmerston’s only public swimming pool.

The upgrade is part of the proposed SWELL (Swimming, Wellness, Events, Leisure, Lifestyle) master plan which will transform the centre into a contemporary and family-friendly water and lifestyle precinct.

The exciting concept is purpose built for the needs of the diverse Palmerston community and will not only include a purpose built learn to swim and wellness program pool, but an aquatic adventure play zone, the likes of which has not been seen before in the Territory. 

City of Palmerston will continue to provide free access to the aquatic facilities for all users, ensuring the precinct is accessible to the whole community. 

Palmerston is the fastest growing city in the Northern Territory and serves as a regional hub for the surrounding areas, making this an important redevelopment for Palmerston residents and our neighbours. 

The Palmerston Swimming and Fitness Centre is 30 years old and planning has been underway to renew the aged facility to meet the needs of the growing community.

City of Palmerston Mayor Athina Pascoe-Bell said the proposed SWELL project is part of Council’s strategic vision to provide vital facilities for Palmerston residents and create a valuable asset for the region.

Key features of the proposed project include:

• Refurbished 50 metre pool with compliant entry ramp and starting platforms that will improve accessibility for all members of the community.
• A dedicated warm water program pool to support increased physical activity for the community that will improve aquatic safety skills and overall wellness needs.
• Toddlers zero depth and play pool to promote physical activity through fun, whilst providing an area for water familiarisation and exploration.
• An aquatic adventure play structure to provide activity opportunity for our youth, and the young at heart, ensuring that there are facilities for all ages and social groups.
• New amenities to provide accessible and inclusive facilities bringing the centre in line with current contemporary approaches to provision of sanitary facilities. 
• New café to provide a social hub and meeting place increasing the sense of community as well as economic outcomes.
• Energy efficient, modern pool plant and equipment to provide operational efficiencies and water hygiene to contemporary standards.

Community facilities such as swimming pools play an important part in social inclusion, bringing neighbours, families and friends together.  

City of Palmerston is committed to communicating and engaging with stakeholders and residents about the proposed revitalisation. Community consultation will commence on 16 September 2020.

Construction of the project is expected to commence in 2021 subject to finalising funding.

Quote from City of Palmerston Mayor Athina Pascoe-Bell

“The proposed SWELL project will deliver vital upgrades to the Palmerston Swimming and Fitness Centre to ensure there is something for everyone in our community, from babies learning to swim to our older population looking after their health and wellness.  

The facility is already an important part of our community’s social, health and general wellbeing needs, and this renewal will create a contemporary and accessible precinct that is usable year-round.

City of Palmerston and the Northern Territory Government have committed $5 million for the project. Council are continuing discussions with the Australian Government to secure their financial contribution for this iconic and regionally significant project.”

Quotes from the Minister for Infrastructure, Planning and Logistics, and Member for Drysdale, Eva Lawler 

“Palmerston is the family capital of the Northern Territory and our Government is investing in projects and services that make our city a better place to live, work and play.

Investing in quality infrastructure that creates jobs for Territorians is important to the Territory Labor Government.

The Territory is the rebound capital of Australia; with projects like the SWELL showing our fellow Australians why it’s great to call the Territory and Palmerston home.”

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