THE redevelopment of the Wyndham Leisure and Events Centre could be delayed or reduced in size after the project was overlooked for federal funding.
The $61million redevelopment is dependant on Wyndham Council sourcing $20million in external funding. It had applied for $15million from the federal government’s Regional Development Australia fund. The centre was not on a list of projects announced by Regional Australia Minister Simon Crean last week.
Mr Crean announced funding for nine Victorian projects, totalling $38.8million, including $13.5million for an aquatic centre at Frankston. He said the approved projects were local priorities which leveraged other funding and would sustain the economic and social future of their regions.
Mayor Kim McAliney said the council would have to review the scope, timing and
funding of the Hoppers Crossing project. “It appears that the support required from the federal government will not be forthcoming,” she said.
As part of the redevelopment, capacity at the centre would be increased, and events, pool and gym spaces improved. A library would also be added to the site.
Hoppers Crossing Swimming Club coach Ken Warren said the expansion would help the club meet demand.
The council approved the redevelopment after it became clear the existing centre was struggling to cope with Wyndham’s population boom.
“This is an extremely disappointing outcome for Wyndham given the need for infrastructure investment in our rapidly growing city. [Last week] the state Planning Minister [Matthew Guy] outlined plans to extend the urban growth boundary in Wyndham to allow for even more housing, and without major contributions from the state and federal governments we simply will not be able to keep up with demand for vital road and community infrastructure,” Cr McAliney said.
