In early June, sporting and recreation groups, community support agencies and special service providers took the opportunity to put forward their views as part of the first round of consultations held for the Development Plan.  More than 20 represented groups within the community were interviewed and 16 residents attended an open public meeting on Wednesday 15 June.

The Plan will provide Circular Head Council with detailed advice on the future siting and design of a replacement aquatic centre for the community, and on future development opportunities for three of Smithton's major recreation venues; the Circular Head War Memorial Swimming Pool, the Indoor Sports Stadium and the Community Recreation Centre and associated sporting facilities.

Council's Recreation and Community Officer, Ms Deb Mainwaring, said that a wide range of community needs and development initiatives were identified through the consultations, and that these will be invaluable in helping to define the most effective outcome for the future provision of quality recreation, sporting, leisure and health resources for the Circular Head community.

Mr Jerry de Gryse and Dr Ken Marriott presented two different future aquatic centre "models".  These were a "sports" model, with a focus on training, lap swimming, and competition and a "health and community development" model, with a strong focus on learn to swim, health and well-being programs, fitness, aquatic rehabilitation programs and social and community activities. 

The consultants suggested that each "model" could be justified in Smithton.  However, they said that the substantial number of existing sporting facilities, the ageing population and the need for significant action on community health, suggest that the "health and community development" option would be more appropriate.

Mr de Gryse and Dr Marriott reported that they had identified 3-4 possible sites for new or upgraded aquatic facilities.  Site options are to be reviewed by Councillors and senior officers, and further work will be undertaken before a preferred option is recommended and more detailed siting designs are prepared for community comment.

The planning consultants will be undertaking further consultations with teachers and health specialists.  A second public meeting will also be held so site options can be reviewed by the community. 

Residents or others who would like to discuss their ideas regarding future aquatics provision or any of the three main recreation venues with the consultants are invited to contact Executive Manager of Business Strategy, Mary-Ann Edwards on mobile 0458 386 723 or email medwards@councilbsu.com.au.   Alternately, they can forward written submissions to the General Manager, Circular Head Council, PO Box 348, Smithton 7330 or email to council@circularhead.tas.gov.au.

 

Further enquiries may be directed to Mary-Ann Edwards, Executive Manager Business Strategy Unit by Telephoning 0458 386 723.

Authorised for general media distribution by Greg Winton, General Manager, Circular Head Council on Wednesday 22 June 2011.