The project will relocate a large stormwater pipe running beneath the former swimming pool site, clearing the way for the proposed Rochester Aquatic Centre and improving drainage across the area.
Campaspe Shire Council has completed the project’s detailed design and planning permit, with the stormwater works carrying a design cost of $537,000. Council has committed $5 million towards construction, with the overall project estimated to cost $12.9 million.
The former swimming pool, irreparably damaged in the devastating 2022 floods, has since been demolished as part of a $500,000 council investment. The site has been landscaped and reopened as public open space in the interim, while the search for funding for the new aquatic facility continues.
Planning for the replacement pool has been shaped by extensive community consultation since 2023.
More than 150 residents attended drop-in sessions and stakeholder meetings, while 582 surveys were completed to help determine the preferred design.
Community feedback resulted in three design options being developed, with residents also proposing a fourth concept featuring a splash park alongside a 25-metre swimming pool.
While funding for the splash park is yet to be secured, the aquatic centre’s design will incorporate the supporting infrastructure needed to add it down the track, should funding come through.
Council is actively pursuing additional funding to deliver the Rochester Aquatic Centre, with the stormwater upgrade ensuring the site will be construction-ready the moment remaining funds are in place.
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