Current situation
- There is currently no public swimming pool in Sorell or Midway Point.
- A small private learn to swim pool operates in Lewisham, and a private pool is currently being built in Dodges Ferry, with the State Government providing a $1.5 million grant.
- Sorell and Midway Point are among the fastest growing areas in Tasmania, with many young families moving into the region.
- The Tasmanian Government has expanded the urban growth boundaries in Sorell, which is expected to result in a significant increase in housing and population in the coming years.
What is the issue
- A local, affordable swimming pool will improve residents health and wellbeing and increase water safety skills within the community.
- There are limited non-sport recreational options for young people to socialise and have fun in the local area. Providing safe, supervised spaces for young people is important in reducing antisocial and criminal behaviour.
- Our aging population is increasing, and water exercises are known to improve flexibility and mobility, which reduces medical issues as we age.
My plan
- Sorell Council to undertake a detailed feasibility study into the construction of a Council-operated public swimming pool in Sorell. This will include projected population increases over the next 10 years with the increase of the urban growth boundaries.
- The study to consider providing rooms for private practitioners to work out of (e.g. GPs, physios and podiatrists), a gym and yoga/pilates spaces to offset running costs.
- Potential locations could include Pembroke Park or land that will be subdivided as part of the expanded urban growth boundaries.
- Council would seek funding for construction from the Tasmanian and Federal Governments.
The benefits
- Provides affordable, low impact exercise for people of all ages and abilities.
- Supports physical rehabilitation, injury recovery and management of chronic health conditions.
- Improves mental health by reducing stress and encouraging active lifestyles.
- Teaches essential swimming and water safety skills, helping to reduce drowning risk.
- Creates a safe and welcoming place for families, seniors and young people to gather.
- Reduces social isolation, particularly for older residents and people living alone.
- Offers inclusive activities for people with disability or mobility challenges.
- Strengthens community pride and a sense of belonging.
- Can host events, carnivals and school programs that support the local economy.
- Provides young people with a positive, supervised place to spend time.
- Improves the overall liveability and attractiveness of the Sorell area.
- Incentivise introduction of new sports to the municipality such as underwater hockey/rugby, water polo, as well as activities such as aquacising.
- Less distance to travel for Sorell and Richmond students and may encourage other municipality residents (e.g. Tasman) to participate in pool water based sports.