By Matthew Sims
The Liberal-Nationals Coalition has stepped in to save the Laverton Swim and Fitness Centre from being decomissioned, pledging $6 million towards preserving the site, if they win the upcoming state election.
Liberal candidate for Laverton Raja Reddy announced the funding on Thursday, October 27, after the Laverton community collected more than 1100 signatures for a petition to save the pool.
“Our commitment will upgrade the community pool and ensure its longevity for future generations to come, as well as address the needs of a growing local population,” he said.
“Only the Liberals and Nationals will listen to the community and preserve this history rich and significant pool for Laverton.”
As previously reported by Star Weekly, Hobsons Bay council released a report in July highlighting that it “would neither be technically nor financially prudent” to retain the LSFC as part of the Hobsons Bay Aquatic Strategy 2019-30, which would include the construction of water play and youth facilities at McCormack Park to replace the LSFC and the $60 million Western Aquatic and Early Years Centre [WAEYC].
The report said while the facilities could be retained in its current configuration for a further 20 to 30 years with additional refurbishment and renewal works, a number of elements were reaching a limit of economic viability for the council to maintain or renew.
Built in 1976, parents and grandparents of current Laverton residents dedicated their lives towards raising money towards the construction of the facility.
Liberal Party deputy leader David Southwick said he had a number of ties with the pool.
“My father is one of those community members who banded together all those years ago, building the pool with blood, sweat and tears,” he said.
“Despite the ageing state of the pool and buildings, locals still hold it close to their hearts and we will preserve it into the future.”
Liberal-Nationals spokesperson for sport Cindy McLeish said the pool was a significant source of support for local autistic schools, supporting more than 250 students per week.
