Logan City Council has backflipped on a decision to close Eagleby Aquatic Centre.
After telling residents it was time to “close it down” only eight months ago, the council have now said they want it open for next summer.
Safety concerns about overhead powerlines triggered a council split vote in which councillors called for public consultation to revamp the site, but with no pool.
Now it seems the people have had a win.
The pool will be reopened, and it will have a makeover.
But the centre residents are used to may not be the centre they see at the end of the year, if all goes to plan.
The outdoor beach entry leisure pool will return, refurbished with sales, seats and shelters.
However, the lap pool will be demolished due to potentially dangerous overhanging powerlines.
These changes are only the first step in a two stage plan.
The council also plans on adding a “water play area” and upgrading Bishop Street Park by adding walking tracks and more native vegetation.
Possible credit for the centre’s sudden return can be given to Division 12 coucillor Karen Murphy, who said last winter she would work with the community to build a “masterplan” to have the centre reopened.
“I’m proud to have advocated on behalf of my local community to achieve this result,” Cr Murphy said.
“Council will reach out to residents, sporting organisations and schools in due course to ask for their ideas and feedback on the redevelopment of this important community site.”
Credit for the redevelopment plan can also be extended to Eagleby residents, who not only attended numerous council pop-up meetings but submitted close to 500 surveys to council.
The original decision to close the pool was made behind closed council doors for undisclosed reasons.
Later, council revealed there were safety concerns with overhanging powerlines above the lap pool.
“Council is committed to providing safe, cost-effective community facilities that benefit all community members and taking steps towards re-opening the popular Eagleby beach-entry pool is a wonderful outcome,” Cr Murphy said.
“It will also be the first step towards revitalising public parkland and sports facilities in the heart of Eagleby.”
