The Tamworth Aquatic Group have accused Tamworth Regional Council of using delaying tactics as the group continue to fight to get the city a new aquatic facility at the Sports Dome.
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The fight took TAG into Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce’s office on Monday, and while it was only a meet and greet and introduction to the issue the group left the meeting feeling positive according to chairman Grant Simm.
“It was a good meeting – Barnaby seems to basically be in support of the aquatic centre,” Mr Simms said.
“He said he would be happy to help us start working for funding.”
The member for New England pointed the group towards the Building Better Regions Program as the first step towards getting the funding required to build the centre, although before any funding can be sought or gained the plans need to be put on TRC’s strategic plans.
“This delaying has not just been happening recently it was already in council’s plans ten years ago – they are always constantly delaying on the issue,” Mr Simm said.
The group were set to give a presentation to the Council Sports Working Group prior to a meeting set specifically to discuss the aquatic centre in April, until that meeting was also delayed.
“Initially we were advised that Council were meeting to discuss the development of the Aquatic Centre straight after the Festival. We have since learned that this meeting has not occurred as promised by the mayor,” Mr Simm said.
“Now we have been advised that the earliest we can present to the Council Working Group is June. Again we are left asking the questions what’s the delay and why will it still be three years until the facility is only shovel ready?”
TRC General Manager Paul Bennett acknowledged that the planning of an aquatic facility has been in development for too long.
“There is no question that the planning for an aquatic centre is a priority for this term of Council, we have made this very clear,” Mr Bennett said.
“Our primary focus is the delivery of the Northern Inland Centre for Sporting Excellence. Whilst we are delivering this project, we are committed to finalising the plans and associated budget and resources for a new aquatic facility. We are looking at a $30 million plus project which is currently not budgeted for. Our challenge is to ensure the planning, consultation and funding strategies are sound.”
