New Woden Pool Announcement Brings Mixed Reactions
The ACT government has recently pledged to construct a new 50-metre outdoor swimming pool in Woden, a move that has been broadly welcomed by the community. However, this development raises several important questions regarding its implementation and broader implications for Canberra's aquatic infrastructure.
Timing and Transition Concerns for Existing Facilities
One of the primary issues revolves around the timing of this new Olympic-sized pool for Canberra's south side. Campaigners from the Save Phillip Pool group have expressed support for the replacement but are urging the government to keep the existing Phillip pool operational until the new facility opens. This existing pool, owned by property developer Geocon, is slated for closure and redevelopment into apartments, with a smaller pool incorporated into one of the blocks. The necessity of this redeveloped pool is now under scrutiny following the announcement of the new Woden pool.
Political Pressures and Community Listening
There is speculation about whether ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr's decision was influenced by political pressure, particularly from the Greens, who had accused Labor of yielding to developers. Mr Barr has denied such influences, stating that he listened to community feedback, a common refrain among politicians when shifting stances. He emphasised the importance of pools in Canberra, noting, "Canberra doesn't have beaches, so our local pools are where many people go to cool off, where kids learn to swim, and where communities come together. We absolutely recognise how essential they are."
Addressing Diving Needs and National Pastime
In a positive move, the government has also committed to including a diving facility in the ACT, as the new Canberra Aquatic Centre at Commonwealth Park will lack one. This is crucial for supporting Olympic sports like diving and providing recreational opportunities. Swimming, often considered one of Australia's great national pastimes, holds special significance in Canberra due to its lack of coastline. As Mr Barr highlighted, Canberrans deserve opportunities to excel in swimming and enjoy aquatic activities for fun, especially amid recent heatwaves with temperatures soaring into the 40s.
Financial Considerations and Public Investment
A broader debate exists over whether investing in new public pools demands excessive public funds during times when budgets should be tight. However, given swimming's cultural importance and the city's geographical constraints, many argue that such investments are justified. The need for accessible, high-quality swimming facilities is underscored by the community's reliance on them for cooling off, learning, and socialising.
Overall, while the new Woden pool is a welcome addition, it prompts ongoing discussions about funding, political motivations, and the strategic planning of Canberra's aquatic resources.
