Calls for the City of South Perth to finally consider getting a public pool have fallen on deaf ears despite “strong community feedback”.
The city’s final Draft Public Health Plan 2026-2031, which is scheduled to be considered at the August 25 council meeting, does not prioritise considering a pool until after 2031.
The City of South Perth does not currently have a public pool.
It received 35 submissions when the plan was advertised for comment, with a council report acknowledging “strong community support that was expressed for a public swimming pool, recreation centre or aquatic facility”.
“We desperately need a swimming pool in the City of South Perth,” one submission said.
“Support funding to improve local sporting venues and build a recreation and aquatic centre,” said another.
“Would like to see a public swimming pool in the council region,” added another.
Officers “noted” these comments but referred to a decision made by the council in 2023.
“Council resolved in May 2023 that the Recreation Aquatic Facility (RAF) would not proceed,” the report said.
“This was due to a shortfall in capital funding to support the project, and concerns about increasing interest rates and capacity for ongoing costs to be carried by ratepayers.”
In 2022, the council had asked for revisions to its then-proposed RAF project.
The first stage of the project proposed indoor aquatics and health club/gym together with a restaurant, bar and function room and improvements to the golf facilities at Collier Park Golf Course. A technology-based golf driving range with integrated food and beverage options was also proposed.
Some residents use Wesley College’s pool, which has been closed since June 30 last year for renovations, and is also used by students.
The school anticipates the works will take 12 to 18 months to complete.