Opposition surfaces to proposal to reduce Corowa pool length to 25 metres

Long-time Corowa Swim Club member and coach Paul Upton has raised his concerns about a consultants' recommendation to Federation Council to reduce the pool to 25 metres with scope to make it an indoor facility at a later date.

Mr Upton's opposition was raised at a community meeting last week to discuss development options for the pool.

Council administrator Mike Eden denied the issue was a done-deal with all feedback to be considered before a final decision is made.

A feasibility study and options report are on public display until September 19 and a community survey has been sent to residents.

Mr Upton said reducing the pool length to 25 metres would set the town back for the next 40 years.

"How can it be the preferred option when no one wants it?" he said.

"There is a lot of apathy in the town and I get that, but there is no one actively standing up and saying we should have a 25 metre pool.

"The only people pushing that angle are council and consultant."

Mr Upton said a 25 metre pool would be a major blow to Corowa Swim Club.

It has to have a 50 metre pool to compete in the Ovens and Murray District Swimming Association premier division.

"Any kid who shows a little bit of promise is going to leave and go to a club in Albury or Wangaratta," Mr Upton said. "What they are trying to do here is cut ourselves off at the knees as a town with an inferior sporting facility for the next 40 years."

The council has $3 million to redevelop the Corowa pool with a mix of 25 metre pool, 15 metre beginners' pool and splash pad estimated to cost $5.8 million.

The anticipated annual operational losses range from $150,000 to $180,000 for a 25 metre facility compared to $230,000 to $250,000 for a new 50 metre pool.

Mr Eden said it was a big decision for Corowa.

"This is an important decision for the community of Corowa and council appreciates having the opportunity to detail the options which have been explored," he said.

'If the recommended option is not supported, other options can be considered.

"However there must be a willingness by the residents and ratepayers of Corowa to pay for such a facility."

Recreation and aquatic expert Michael King has been engaged by Federation Council to assist in developing future pool options.