Construction underway on Alkimos aquatic centre

The milestone follows the completion of the detailed design for the facility and the approval of a construction tender at the City’s December Council meeting.

Mayor Linda Aitken said she was excited to share the news with residents of the City’s northern suburbs, many of whom advocated for the new facility.

“We are committed to providing sport and recreation facilities that enable our residents to lead healthy and active lifestyles, no matter where they live in our City,” she said.

“The AARC has been a high priority for the City since 2018, and it is important that we are able to deliver a state-of-the-art facility to suit the needs of our growing community well into the future.

“Thanks to exceptional planning and collaboration, we are proud to be delivering this project ahead of schedule, ensuring that local residents will soon have access to world-class amenities that support active, healthy lifestyles for years to come.

The City is grateful to have received funding commitments of $30 million from the Australian Government, including $25 million under the Priority Community Infrastructure Program and $5 million under the Female Facilities and Water Safety Stream, $12.6 million from the State Government, including $10 million under the WA Recovery Program, $2.5 million from the Community Sports and Recreation Facilities Fund and $147,592 through the Changing Places program, and $14.2 million through the Alkimos-Eglinton Developer Contribution Plan.

Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King said she looked forward to seeing works continue to progress, supporting a real jobs and economic boost for Wanneroo.

“It’s so exciting to see construction begin on the Alkimos Aquatic and Recreation Centre – a result of the funding partnerships in place for this terrific community facility in Perth’s north.”

Federal Minister for Health and Aged Care Anika Wells said she was proud to continue to provide greater access for families and people of all ages to get involved in sport and physical activity.

“It’s exciting to see construction begin on the Alkimos Aquatic and Recreation Centre,” she said.

“Our investment in the Centre as part of the Female Facilities and Water Safety Stream Program will be a fantastic opportunity for Wanneroo city residents to stay active - in the pool, the gym, or on the courts.”

Federal Member for Pearce Tracey Roberts said the government’s ongoing commitment to providing new and improved infrastructure for the electorate of Pearce would encourage the community to thrive, both economically and socially.

“This new build will not only serve as a hub for learn-to-swim programs, physical activity but will also foster social connections among residents, strengthening the fabric of our community and will become a much loved and valued community asset.”

State Minister for Disability Services Don Punch said he was proud to be providing a Changing Place facility at the AARC, to improve accessibility at the new venue and ensure visitors with disability can enjoy their visit.

“Changing Places are for people who cannot use standard or accessible toilets, including those with profound and multiple learning disabilities, motor neurone disease, multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy and elderly people,” he said.

“This new facility will expand the network of Changing Places to Perth’s northern coastal corridor and ensure people with disability can extend their visit in comfort, safe in the knowledge that their needs will be catered for in a dignified and accessible manner.”

For more information, visit the Alkimos aquatic and recreation centre project page.