The Australian National University has announced that it will be building a 24-hour recreation facility. This will include a brand-new pool.
The ABC reported that ANU is set to build a new swimming pool estimated to cost $14 million. The proposed 25-meter six-lane indoor pool will be part of a recreational facility which is expected to open to the public in 2019.
The university described it as a "multi-million dollar Christmas present" for its students, staff as well as neighbors in the Canberra suburbs. It was noted that the institution is still in talks with the ACT Government to extend the pool size to 50 meters.
"The suggestion that ANU should have a swimming pool is one that is made often and repeatedly by everyone here, from first-year students to professors who have been on the campus since before most of our students were born," ANU vice-chancellor Professor Brian Schmidt said. "ANU has grown substantially over the past decade and we now have more than 4,000 staff and 22,000 students, including 5,000 who live on the campus."
The recreation facility, which will also include a hydro pool and a 24/7 gym, is reportedly a part of a $200 million upgrade to Union Court. This is the university's main project.
According to Canberra Times, Schmidt admitted that he was not yet confident that they would be allowed to build a 50-meter pool. However, he did reveal that Chief Minister Andrew Barr is considering the expansion.
"There are some complications at mixing a sort of public, private facility like this but I would say there's a great deal of good will on both sides," Schmidt added.
It was revealed that the new pool and gym facility will be run by the Club Group. It is expected to draw in Canberrans from outside the university.
The $200 million redevelopment project will include more green spaces. It will also provide upgrades for the student and teaching facilities, ampitheaters, bars, a cinema and an estimated 400 new underground parking spaces.
