Group criticises pool decision

New Central Coast political group, Central Coast First (CCF), has criticised the decision to demolish the Peninsula's swimming pool without a replacement satisfactorily approved, tendered or budgeted for.

Central Coast First team leader Mr Laurie Maher said that there was no better example of how poorly Gosford was being governed by the current Council.

"Locals are left with no alternative swimming facility for summer 2003, or the next in 2004."

He said the council was seeking to build unsatisfactory facilities using inadequate noise insulation, as a cheaper solution, has further delayed the reconstruction.

"A sensible approach prior to demolition would have involved research into recently-constructed aquatic facilities in other regions, thus clarifying essential building compliances.

"Funds estimated at $1.3 million required to complete the project should not involve selling off Council-owned land that could otherwise be used for park facilities and open space.

"It's a simple case of bad management.

"It's appalling that the same group of people professing to understand and determine private development applications, don't appear to understand or organise their own.

"Is this same level of disorganisation reflected in other Council decisions?" he asked.

CCF chairman Mr Daryl Lynch suggested other options to raise the funding shortfall should be implemented.

"Reducing wastage on litigation and consultants, currently in the vicinity of $10 million, would more than cater for the required funds.

"Also the sale of advanced annual ticketing for future users at an attractively discounted rate should assist."

Peninsula resident Ms Michelle Cairns said she was angry about the Council's disregard for normal building requirements for their own development.

"As a regional sports centre, the facility will hold swimming carnivals, basketball, netball and volleyball competitions," she said.

"Unlike the old Woy Woy pool, the new centre will be open all year round, seven days a week and as late as 10pm.

"The site is in the middle of a residential region so sound insulation measures need to be addressed seriously.

"Should surrounding residents complain about noise emissions after the centre has been opened, the EPA has the authority to step in and limit operations.

"This has been the case for the Bexley Swim Centre.

"Surely the sensible approach would be to contain the noise adequately to ensure the facility remains fully operational."

Ms Cairns said that residents of the Woy Woy Peninsula were tired of looking at the dustbowl that used to be their local public swimming pool.

"Gosford Council is incompetently budgeting and managing this very important project.

"An independent assessment of the whole process needs to be undertaken.

"The Peninsula deserves a quality construction that meets the needs of the Peninsula, keeps to the budget and takes into account that the site is in the middle of a residential area."

Press release, November 12