Geraldton Aquarena’s outdoor pool to remain closed for summer after upgrades delayed by bad weather

Geraldton Aquarena’s outdoor pool will be out of action for summer after upgrades were delayed due to severe weather earlier this year. The $6.1 million project was set to be delivered on schedule and within budget, however work was suspended following rainfall from cyclone Charlotte. The City of Greater Geraldton director of infrastructure services Chris Lee said the outdoor pool would not be available for the community to enjoy this summer as the delay had considerably pushed out the timeline. “Potential solutions have been identified and will be presented to council for deliberation in the near future,” he said. “Solutions as well as associated costs will be presented to council, so we will know more following their decision on how to progress and what the new timelines potentially look like.” Mr Lee said they were still working through the timeline and would know more after September’s council meeting. “We know this is a big blow of our community and are doing everything we can to reach a cost-effective solution that meets our community’s needs,” he said. “The Geraldton Aquarena staff are also working with pool user groups to ensure we provide the best service we can in accordance with their needs.” The facility’s outdoor pool had reached the end of its 50-year life cycle last year and was being upgraded to extend its use for a further 20 years. The works included replacement of the pool’s concrete walls, installation of disability access ramps and stairs, retiling as well as a new water treatment plant, drainage and hydraulic systems. The bulk of the project’s costs were being funded by the City, but it received a $750,000 State Government grant through the Community Sporting and Recreation Facilities Fund.