Fresh approach for aquatic centre funding

Gosford Council will attempt to reverse a State Government decision to contribute no more than $200,000 towards the multi-million dollar Peninsula Aquatic Centre

It has resolved to "seek an urgent meeting between the mayor, general manager and the Minister for Roads to seek reconsideration of the decision not to provide funding assistance for road improvements in the vicinity of the Peninsula Regional Leisure Centre".

The council decided to "seek representations with the Minister for Roads, the NSW Premier, the Special Minister for the Central Coast and the Member for Peats".

"The apparent delay of the State Government in honouring its funding commitment to the Central Coast CARES facility" would be raised during these representations.

A staff report to the council stated: "At its meeting on June 24, council considered a report short listing construction firms for the building of the Peninsula Regional Leisure Centre.

"In that report, it was noted that further submissions were to be made to the relevant Ministers and local Members regarding funding for road improvements in the vicinity of the new centre.

"Since council considered last months report, a letter from the Minister for Roads has been received.

"The proposed leisure centre has been in the planning stages for some time and meets an identified community need for an integrated leisure facility.

"The Federal Government has recognised the need for such a facility and its regional role through a grant of $1.5 million.

"Despite repeated comments of support from local Members, to date the State Government has committed to a grant of only $200,000.

"A contribution of $200,000 by the State Government is not consistent with the significance of the facility to the community and it is recommended that further representations be made to the Minister for Roads as a matter of urgency.

"The opportunity remains for the State Government to demonstrate its commitment to the Central Coast and the potential of the proposed leisure centre to contribute to an increased quality of life for its residents."

Council agenda MM.012, July 22