AlburyCity will move forward with the redevelopment of the Lavington Swim Centre after Council last night endorsed Stage 3 as the preferred concept design following community consultation.
To date $16.15 million has been allocated in AlburyCity’s Draft Budget 2025/26 to replace the existing facility, which is reaching the end of its serviceable life.
Draft concept plans were publicly exhibited from 12 March to 9 April 2025 via the Have Your Say portal, attracting significant community interest and generating 295 submissions from 272 contributors.
The majority of respondents - 66 per cent - supported the proposed Masterplan which outlined four design options. Stage 3 ($45.1 million) received the highest level of support (32 per cent), followed by Stage 4 ($50.8 million) at 28 per cent. Among those who supported the Masterplan, Stage 3 remained the most popular option with 39 per cent support, reaffirming a clear community preference for comprehensive, future-focused upgrades.
Albury Mayor Kevin Mack said the endorsement of Stage 3 represented a strong step toward creating a state-of-the-art facility which will serve the region for decades to come.
“We’re planning for the future - not just for today. Lavington deserves a facility which meets the needs of our growing community, and Stage 3 offers a smart, long-term solution that reflects where Albury is heading,” Mayor Mack said.
“This option delivers the most value for the community while remaining an investment in our future. The existing pool has two years left and is no longer meeting modern standards for safety or usage.”
Mayor Mack also acknowledged concerns about project funding, emphasising that Council will seek external support to bring the vision to life.
“While we currently have $16.15 million allocated, we will be actively pursuing grant funding opportunities, and looking to future budgets, to support delivery of the project.”
Community feedback highlighted strong support for features included in Stage 3 and 4, particularly the dedicated water polo pool and additional swimming lanes. These were seen as significant benefits for recreational users, local swim clubs and water sports associations, with many respondents noting the improved opportunities for training, competition and community events.
The broader health, wellbeing and liveability benefits of the project were also emphasised, including increased opportunities for physical activity and social interaction.
Some concerns were raised about the project’s scale and cost, particularly regarding the feasibility of securing sufficient funding. In response, Council will receive a further report following completion of the detailed design. This report will include estimated costings to operate the newly designed facility year-round, and the opportunity to issue a tender under a maximum-price contract model.
Stage 3 of the Lavington Swim Centre redevelopment includes a:
- 10-lane, 50-metre pool
- 35-metre x 25-metre water polo pool with a uniform depth of 2 metres
- 25-metre utility pool
- Splash pad
- New pool building featuring administration, kiosk, change rooms and amenities
- Multi-purpose social room
Council will now proceed with the detailed design for Stage 3 under its existing contract with Canvas Projects. Preparation of grant applications will commence when sufficient supporting information is prepared, and suitable programs become available.
This landmark project addresses a critical regional need for modern, inclusive and accessible aquatic facilities, and will play a key role in promoting community health, wellbeing and economic growth across the Albury region.