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The second meeting of Phase 2 of the New Waves pool project garnered
much attention when more than 100 people turned out at the Rotary Hall
in the Plex last week.
Facilitated by consultant, Bernie Range, and Mike Myatt of the Town,
Phase 2 took an in-depth look at what people want in a pool facility.
The most common denominator was that, if built, it should not simply be
a pool facility but instead be a multi-purpose complex that would have a
variety of amenities.
The presentation depicted other aquatic centres throughout the province
in towns of comparable population size in a slide presentation. Some
included a walking track and water slides, most incorporated competition
swim lanes in addition to hot tubs and recreational swimming pools along
with spacious decks and viewing area. In addition, most pools are seeing
a resurgence in diving boards.
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13/01/2009 04:17 PM
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(continued)
While the discussions are at the preliminary stage of whether or not
to even go ahead with an aquatic centre, people were more than willing
to put forward their suggestions. One of the most difficult aspects is
where to build such a facility. Four locations were named: Fenton lands
(owned by the town) at the very south end of Port Elgin; adjacent to the
existing Plex skating arena; on land adjacent to Legault's Independent;
on the existing property behind the local High School, where the
existing pool is.
Many pros and cons were brought forward for each location by those in
attendance. While plans appears to be going forward in the New Waves
project, Town Council has not yet considered whether or not it will be
built. There has been no dollar figure to date although it was
previously mentioned that such a facility may cost in the neighbourhood
of $8 to $10 million.
Phase 3 meetings are currently being planned.
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