THE much-anticipated public release of the Albury aquatics strategy has been put on hold until early next year.
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Albury Council and its aquatics facilities advisory committee chaired by Cr Alice Glachan were this week given secret updates on future pool options being considered by consultancy firm, SGL.
But due to the high level of public interest in the strategy and the holiday period looming its release has been delayed until the first council meeting of next year on February 1.
SGL director Mike King made the two presentations this week.
Most options previously floated including a revamped Albury Swim Centre, Lauren Jackson Sports Centre, Jelbart Park including an upgraded Lavington Swim Centre remain in the mix for the city's next pool.
Some proposed facilities include accompanying gymnasiums and retail outlets and will remain open all-year round compared to the existing seasonal arrangements at Albury and Lavington outdoor pools.
Price estimates on various option range from $35 million to almost $50 million.
Albury Council released a statement on the status of the aquatics strategy following the two briefings.
"The council continues to work with SGL Consulting and the aquatics facilities advisory committee to develop the Albury Council aquatics strategy," mayor Henk van de Ven said.
"This follows extensive community and stakeholder consultation.
"Aquatic facilities are significant community assets and developing a detailed strategy is complex.
"The draft strategy document is still being developed and given there is only one more council meeting for the year, it is proposed to be presented to council on February 1.
"Subject to Council consideration, the draft strategy will be placed on public exhibition for up to six weeks to allow as many people as possible to comment.
"Residents are encouraged to contact Albury Council if they would like further information in relation to the strategy development."
Albury pool was reconstructed in 1992 and Lavington pool was built in 1966.
The most recent aquatics review was carried out in 2007.
But four options including an Albury Swim Centre upgrade and a new pool at Lauren Jackson Sports Centre _ all costing around $20 million _ were put on hold.
