Cardinia Shire Council is calling for funding and support to deliver an expanded and modern sports and aquatic centre for our growing community.
Council is seeking $28.5 million from the Australian and Victorian governments to begin stage one of the Cardinia Life redevelopment. This project is one of 4 priority projects for which Council is advocating in the lead-up to the Federal election on 3 May.
Cardinia Shire Mayor Cr Jack Kowarzik said there was a lack of investment in growth areas like Cardinia Shire and that greater funding and support was urgently needed to ensure residents have the same quality of life as people in more established areas.
"Cardinia Life is a popular and well-used community facility that attracts people from right across the shire, but it's showing signs of ageing and can't keep up with demand from our rapidly growing population," Mayor Kowarzik said.
"Since Cardinia Life first opened in 2006, our population has more than doubled, and it's expected to grow by another 40,000 over the next 10 years.
"Cardinia Life has more than 135 different user groups, including local sporting clubs and associations, schools, community groups and businesses, and this demand will only continue to grow.
"Redevelopment is essential to ensure the centre is future-proofed to cater for population growth, and to ensure our community is supported to remain active, healthy and connected, as well as allowing our residents to have the same opportunities as those who live in other municipalities."
Mayor Kowarzik said ongoing maintenance issues were resulting in significant costs to Council.
"Unfortunately, the centre is experiencing a number of ongoing maintenance issues with the roof, which leaks during heavy rain. In addition to that, the heating, ventilation and air conditioning system needs to be upgraded, and the ageing change rooms are in desperate need of renewal.
"In the past year, Council has spent more than $250,000 on maintenance costs alone – money that could be much better spent elsewhere for the benefit of our community."
Council is proposing to undertake the redevelopment in 3 stages to deliver:
- new aquatic facilities
- an additional 4 sports courts to bring the total number to 12
- expanded gym, leisure and wellness facilities, and
- improved community facilities.
"We estimate that the redevelopment of Cardinia Life will deliver almost $230 million in gross economic benefits to our community over the next three decades," Mayor Kowarzik said.
"This includes the direct benefits to users and the local economy, as well as the social value of improved physical and mental health.
"Community members will no longer have to fight for limited spaces in the pool and on the basketball court, with plenty of space to meet demand now and as we grow.
"A redeveloped Cardinia Life will benefit residents of all ages and abilities from right across the shire, as well as provide opportunities for people to stay healthy and active, and to help to strengthen connection in the community."
The total cost of the project is estimated at $150 million. Council has prepared a comprehensive business case and is keen to partner with the Australian and Victorian governments to deliver this much-needed project,
