General News
24 January, 2023
Staff shortage delays pool plan
DEVELOPMENT of a new strategy for the future of Loddon swimming pools is a year behind schedule. Loddon Shire Council had wanted to start work on its recreation open space and aquatic strategy last July. But a council spokesperson says work was now...
DEVELOPMENT of a new strategy for the future of Loddon swimming pools is a year behind schedule.
Loddon Shire Council had wanted to start work on its recreation open space and aquatic strategy last July.
But a council spokesperson says work was now “anticipated to get underway over the next few months “.
The spokesperson said: “A combination of the flood response and a vacant position within the community support team has delayed progress of the recreation, open space and aquatic strategy.
“Council has recently filled this vacant position within the community support team.”
Details of the planned strategy were confirmed last January at the height of community concern for the future of Loddon’s five swimming pools at Boort, Pyramid Hill, Mitiamo, Inglewood and Wedderburn with lifeguard shortages blamed for erratic opening days.
Pool manager Belgravia has this season recruited an increased pool of lifeguards and also extended opening hours on extremely warm days.
Council says initial work on the strategy will include the appointment of a consultant, after a tender process, to work with the community support team to develop the draft strategy.
“(This) will include consultation and engagement with the community. Following this, it is expected the draft strategy will be complete in the second half of 2023,” it said.