The green light for Amberley Pool makeover

Amberley Pool is being redeveloped, thanks to a decision made at last week’s Hurunui District Council meeting.

The preferred Option 3 was passed by the Councillors. The existing pool will now be heated, and a new structure will be built featuring new changing rooms, toilets and showers situated at the north end of the pool. Access into the pool for the older person, those who are mobility impaired, and parents with toddlers has been made easy with a pod system. Swimming instruction will be significantly improved with the shallow end being made slightly shallower and the pool floor gradient made safer. The deep end is still going to be the current depth. The fun factor is enhanced with a ‘bombing platform’ at the deep end and a family friendly outdoor area. The pool environment will look and feel like a new pool with a ‘new pool’ lining, new filtration system and the surrounding concrete levelled and covered with an epoxy floor.

In total, this project will cost $2 million, and there has been $1,500,000 budgeted and passed for the Amberley Pool redevelopment. There is a plan to raise this money through a joint effort between HDC, Save Our Pool and external funders.

Pool consultants Create Ltd will now produce a project tender document ready to go to market, so the project will be shovel ready July 2021.

HDC Project Lead, Roger Hornblow, said it was pretty exciting to get it over the line.

“There has been a lot of work behind the scenes over the last 12 months to analyse the needs of the current pool and site, and then to come up with pool designs and costings to get to where we are today.”

South Ward Committee Chairman Michael Ward said a lot of great work has gone into reaching this decision, and he is looking forward to getting some fundraising underway.

“The shortfall between the pool costs and the budget can be funded through community-raised funds and not require an increase in rates or Council budget.”

Mayor Marie Black was thrilled to see this given the green light last week.

“This is such wonderful news for Amberley and the wider community. Water safety is an integral part of our society and having a fantastic facility like this not only helps with this aspect, but also creates a safe and fun option for activity and social gatherings, for everyone.”

There is a plan to raise this money through a joint effort between HDC, Save Our Pool and external funders.