Taylor Oval to proceed as planned site for new Moree Aquatic Centre

At the July meeting of Moree Plains Shire Council, held last Thursday, July 17, a resolution was passed that council proceed with Taylor Oval as the planned site for the new Moree Aquatic Centre.

During the meeting, a report from NSW Public Works regarding Site Feasibility for Taylor Oval was tabled as part of the discussion.

The report confirmed that “Taylor Oval is a suitable location for the proposed new pool given its connectivity to the town centre, its proximity to the existing sporting and community infrastructure and the local schools.”

Mayor Susannah Pearse, said the study was a step in the right direction, one that allowed council to continue with existing plans for Taylor Oval as the site for the new pool.

“This study concluded that Taylor Oval is a suitable and feasible location for our new swimming pool, which is really positive,” said Cr Pearse.

“Council is aware of how passionate our community is about our pool and how important it is to have somewhere to swim – especially for children who are learning this vital life skill – so we are pleased to have a number of scenarios to ensure Taylor Oval moves forward as the site.

“In terms of next steps to getting final approval for Taylor Oval as the site for our new pool, the report from NSW Public Works recommended Council consult Heritage NSW and we will proceed based on that recommendation.”

In considering the matter, council noted the extensive work undertaken in reviewing the site’s cultural heritage – which resulted in the state-approved rezoning more than a decade ago – and has requested that Heritage NSW consider that prior work in a review of the current registration.

If Heritage NSW approves council’s request, the next steps will include undertaking additional engineering investigations and considering concept options for design of the new pool.