Campaspe Shire Council announced the first steps are being taken for the demolition and ultimate rebuilding of the Rochester District War Memorial Pool.
Set to begin around mid-to-late September, contracts for the work are set to be finalised soon. Residents in the local vicinity have been notified by letter.
Mayor Rob Amos said these works are bittersweet for the community, as the long-standing site is demolished to make way for something new.
“We understand the community’s connection to this space and whilst the demolition of the pool may be a sad event for some community members, it also signifies a new beginning for this beloved community space,” he said.
“We have listened to Rochester residents, and the design of the new aquatic facility will reflect the community's vision for a modern, inclusive, and welcoming environment.”
The pool has been closed since the October 2022 floods, when it sustained significant damage.
Talks of refurbishments and funding have been raised by councillors and politicians, including Members for Northern Victoria Wendy Lovell and Gaelle Broad during the Victorian Legislative Council sitting at Echuca library in April this year.
Once the demolition is completed, the area will be landscaped and reopened as a public space until further funding is secured for the construction of the new aquatic facility.
Council has said it will look to minimise disruption during this process.
“While there will be some inconvenience during the demolition, we are working to ensure that safety and environmental considerations, such as dust suppression and noise control, are prioritised,” Cr Amos said.
“We appreciate the public’s patience and cooperation during this transition.
“This is the next step forward in our efforts to bring a new pool to Rochester.”
Council is looking to have the entire project, including landscaping, completed by the end of December this year. A maintenance period will follow until late February.
For project updates, head to https://www.campaspe.vic.gov.au/Plan-build/Works-projects/Rochester-District-War-Memorial-Pool