Pool replacement another step closer - John Houston Memorial pool in Hay is due a revamp

“The pool cannot be patched up anymore”

By Tertia Butcher

A suggestion by Cr Lionel Garner to again patch up Hay swimming pool rather than replacing the three pools was quickly dismissed by Council.

“We can’t do it,” General Manager David Webb said.

“The pool cannot be patched up any more. It leaks and is ready for a catastrophic failure any time.

“You are just trying to throw good money after bad.”

Mr Webb said such a move would also jeopardise Council’s chances of securing future grants and loans.

“They would be very hesitant to give us the money next time,” he said.

“Council is scheduled to replace The John Houston Memorial Swimming Pool in 2025 which has reached the end of its useful life.

“The swimming pool is at risk of having to be closed at the end of the upcoming season.”

Replacing the three pools is expected to cost $7.29M.

A State Government grant of $3M must be spent in first half of 2025 or Council will risk losing the funding. Council has also received other grant funding and has been approved for a loan of $4M from NSW Treasury Corporation (TCORP).

Tenders have been called for the replacement of the swimming pool as well as construction of the new Hay Hydrotherapy Pool.

These close on November 7.

Mr Webb said while the pool complex puts significant pressure on Council’s finances, it is an important asset for the community and needs to be replaced.

He said all three pools are to be replaced, in addition to some social space for a total re-fresh of the whole structure.