National and international companies are expected to bid for the right to build and operate the State Aquatic Centre in Marion, South Australia. South Australian Recreation Sport and Racing Minister, Michael Wright, joined Marion Mayor, Felicity-Ann Lewis, to sign a memorandum of understanding at the site of the proposed State Aquatic Centre to kickstart an expression of interest process. It is proposed that the State Aquatic Centre will be built and managed by the private sector.
Depending on the results of the expression of interest, some level of public funding may be provided through an operational subsidy from the State Government. The City of Marion will provide the land.
Mayor Felicity-Ann Lewis said the memorandum was the next step in a long process of turning a vision into reality.
“It’s time for us – the State Government and the Council – to test the market and determine the level of interest from the private sector in building the State Aquatic Centre,’’ Mayor Lewis said. “If the market deems this to be a desirable project, we are looking at a two year process until completion of the centre.
“It has the potential to be the most significant single investment in recreation and sporting facilities in the south of Adelaide, and its development will be fantastic for the whole State. The centre will be of an international competition standard which would bring state, national and overseas events and training to the region. It wil also house a complex available to the community 365 days a year, far surpassing what is currently available to residents.’’
The Mayor said the advantages of developing a regional swimming centre with standard swimming facilities were immeasurable.
“It would bring about improved community health and participation,’’ she said. “It also meets Council’s broader vision of bringing arts, entertainment, recreation and essential services within easy reach of Marion residents and the wider community. The impact of the State Aquatic Centre would be far reaching – there would be additional employment opportunities, as well as an influx of visitors to the area which means increased spending and activity.’’
For more details contact Tracie McPherson on (08) 8375 6605 or 0409 703 115.
