As part of repairing the roof over the 50m pool, the work will include structural strengthening, new heating and ventilation systems, pool heating upgrades, fire safety improvements, lighting upgrades, drainage work and essential repairs to improve the overall experience at the pool.
Last September the council voted for an ethylene tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE) roof with a steel frame.
Upgrades to the changing rooms and reception area are outside the contract’s scope.
Deputy Mayor and assets and infrastructure committee chairman Dave Wilson said the project was about giving the community a better, more reliable facility.
“This is about much more than repairing a roof. We are investing in this ageing facility so it can support our district into the future,” he said.
“Should council decide to move towards year-round opening, these upgrades are an important step to equip the facility for that possibility - something we know residents have been asking for.”
The council said a “substantial private funding contribution” had been secured that would make the project more affordable for ratepayers.
It will seek more external funding, with requests already submitted to key agencies.
Watson said the council was “determined to do everything it can” to get the pool open as soon as possible but was limited by construction timelines.
“We understand the community wants this to happen sooner rather than later, but we must make sure we get this right for future generations,” Watson said.
“These repairs and upgrades will ensure the community has a facility that is safer, stronger and prepared for future use and development.
“We will keep updating you as the project moves forward, including what’s happening on site, how the work is tracking, and what this means for the reopening timeframe.”
Alaska Construction and Interiors’ major projects include the Air New Zealand regional lounge in Auckland, Cambridge Police Station, 2degrees head office and Deloitte Wellington.
