Federal Member for Corangamite Libby Coker has urged the City of Greater Geelong Council to reconsider its decision to close the North Bellarine Aquatic Centre prematurely and instead, keep it open until the end of April.

In her letter and discussions with COGG, Ms Coker has also urged council to consider reopening the pool in October, instead of November, this year to better serve the needs of the community.

“Many residents rely on the pool for recreation, rehabilitation, exercise, and social connection, particularly through the warmer months of the year,” Ms Coker said.

“Right from the outset, my consistent message to council was the community wanted a pool that would be open and accessible on an ongoing basis. Unfortunately, my concerns and the concerns of the community regarding year-round access have proven valid, as evidenced by the dissatisfaction expressed by residents.

“I am proud that the $40-million Federal/State Government partnership will now deliver stage 2 – an indoor aquatic centre for the North Bellarine. Government and the community have an expectation the centre will be open year-round once complete. And there is an onus on council to meet this expectation.

“In the interim, I urge council to extend the pool season until the end of April and reopen it in October, this way we will better accommodate the needs of our community and utilise this valuable asset more effectively. This decision would not only improve community satisfaction but also demonstrate responsiveness to the concerns raised by residents.”