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.
- An indoor pool and aquatic centre does not need to be built immediately, but it does need to be properly assessed once the Dodges Ferry private pool opens and its impact on community demand is understood. However, with Sorell’s population predicted to double over the next 10 years, this is a long-term investment that requires careful planning now to ensure our community has the facilities it needs into the future.
- 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.