Whether it’s for recreation, fitness or life-saving purposes, swimming pools are important to most of us. They’re where most of us learn to swim, and they’re the primary source of public water temperature. They also play an important role in local communities, providing a space where people can meet and socialise. However, they’re not always accessible or affordable for everyone. In some cases, the cost of a pool can be prohibitive for those living in outer suburban areas.
This is why councillors like Greens’ Rochelle Flood and independent Kathy Bryla are pushing Lane Cove to investigate discounted pricing models. Essentially, this would allow residents to pay less than the general entry price, or even free entry. They argue that such a model could improve the financial success of the local pool, by driving up visitor numbers and increasing revenue around the pool, including cafe sales, swimming and aquarobics classes, and other activities. They’re bolstering their argument with evidence from a trial in far south NSW, where Snowy Valleys Council offered free entry and saw a 241 per cent increase in visitors and a 2 per cent decrease in operating costs.
There are no national standards for public pools, but there is a lot of variation between local councils. In Sydney, for example, nine in 10 residents live within 20 minutes of a pool. But that doesn’t mean access is equal across the city, with areas like the western suburbs – Parramatta, Penrith and Hills Shire – underserved compared to inner-city councils such as Mosman and Randwick. And in Melbourne, there are more than 134,000 residents for every public aquatic centre.
When it comes to choosing a pool, it’s essential to do your research and understand the initial and ongoing costs involved. Be sure to ask your potential pool builder about all fees upfront, especially those that are not reflected in their quote. If they’re not willing to be transparent about this, you should find another company. Then, you’ll have peace of mind that your new pool will be built for the right price. This is an especially important step for those considering a fibreglass or concrete pool. Be sure to speak to a specialist who can help you create the best pool for your budget and lifestyle. They will be able to advise you on what your options are and how they might change over time. They can also give you a clear idea of what the process will look like and provide you with a detailed quotation. This will make the whole experience much smoother for you. It will ensure that you’re getting the best value for your money. They will also be able to recommend you reliable contractors and installers for your pool. This is important because you don’t want to end up with a poor-quality pool that will not last.