Mayor's Message

As promised when Council first consulted on the Bruce Community Facility, if there was a significant change to any of the key components of this project we would return for further discussions and direction from you.

I want to applaud the work that has gone in to date from the group of community champions that have driven this project, their dedication and commitment now sees this transformational project on the cusp of becoming a reality, and this last opportunity to consider options and their related funding envelopes will give direction and momentum.

We acknowledge that we are in uncertain times and delays have invariably translated to cost increases, the likes of which have not been experienced in a generation. Quite literally these discussions will define the future trajectory of not only the community, but our district as a whole, because Milton still has the potential to be our districts fastest growing and most vibrant area. But, there are key infrastructural investments required to enable full potential to be reached. Council remains committed to continuing to believe in a brighter more vibrant future for Clutha, one that will encourage people to live, work and prosper here, and also understand that it is only through growth that we will attain the critical mass required to sustain ourselves.

Facilities like a swimming pool or library are considered as basic requirements, and concept plans show an exciting addition that enhances the town and lifts the general ambiance of the Main Street area. This project along with the cycle trail, main street upgrades, and destination toilets/plaza collectively will refresh the town and provide modern facilities befitting the prosperous and positive community.

I want to once again thank the group of locals that have overseen this project and look forward to working in with them as we engage with you all, and together formulate the future shape and direction of the Bruce Community Facility.

Mayor Bryan Cadogan

An update from the Trust

Milton and the surrounding areas are currently serviced by an ageing pool and library. The Centennial Pool, which operates approximately six months a year, is 58 years old and in recent decades has been suffering from structural and maintenance issues. It is at the end of its life span.

Over the past few years, attendance has declined due for various reasons - unfavourable opening hours, increasing days closed for repairs, staffing availability and general loss of interest in an ageing, uninviting facility. The breakdown of numbers show 45% of users are school children, 33% are children out of school time and 22% are adult visitors.

Following a decision made by the community in the 2019 “Our Place” consultation, the Bruce Community Facilities Trust formed to work with Council in building a combined Service Centre/Library and Pool on the Union Street site. Our focus has been ensuring the vision of the community is reflected in the design of the pool. Much research was undertaken, including seeking the advice of an aquatic specialist to ensure the facility would serve the community now and into the future.

We now have a design that includes two large bodies of water and a spa. The main pool will be a six lane, 25 metre pool with ramp access of a suitable depth forlane swimming, learning to swim and rehabilitation. The second pool will include shallower learning to swim lanes, a beach area for babies and toddlers pool. The modern, fit-for-purpose facility will be open yearround and will be accessible to elderly, mobility impaired, youth and visitors. It will provide rehabilitation, sport and recreation, skill building, competition options, swimming education, relaxation, mental health and wellbeing.

The Bruce Community Facilities Trust has committed to raising $2 million from donations, fundraising activities, sponsorship and grants to support the construction of the pool. To date, we have had excellent community support and have raised $200,000. We have built strong relationships with major grant funders and have had positive feedback regarding significant grant availability. We also have had substantial funding and support form our local clubs, organisations and individuals, demonstrating confidence and a desire to elevate our district.

While there is cost associated with the new facility, we believe the cost of losing these essential assets will be far greater – and not just financially.

Milton is the second biggest town in the Clutha District and the population is growing. The BCFT believe to progress our town and nurture economic development, we must attract and retain new residents and provide a quality experience for our people. With the development of the cycle trail and new subdivisions, we have a great opportunity to capitalise on our local assets. The new facility is an investment in our future.

Stephen Woodhead, Chair
Bruce Community Facilities Committee