The City has engaged GHD Pty Ltd to develop a sustainability framework to guide the design, construction and operation of the centre.

Health and Lifestyle Services Manager Todd Cahoon said Bill Grace of GHD was considered one of the foremost sustainability consultants in Perth and would provide guidance throughout the whole project. “The sustainability framework will address environmental performance on criteria such as energy use, water use, indoor pollutants and the materials used,” he said. “It will also look at social measures of success, including accessibility, cultural issues, social interaction and inclusion.”

Mayor Russell Aubrey said the City of Melville had always had a strong ecological focus and was committed to reducing the City’s impact on the environment while still providing a high level of services to our community. “Some of the City of Melville’s sustainability initiatives include membership to the Green Building Council of Australia and adopting Ecologically Sustainable Design and Construction Guidelines,” he said. “Our sustainable building guidelines aim is to reduce the demand on natural resources, lower operating costs and produce healthier internal environments while providing enhanced and attractive facilities for the local community.”

The recreation centre redevelopment known as “The Leeming Re-Creation” was unanimously approved by Council in July following extensive community consultation and discussion.

The proposal includes redeveloping the aquatic facility to a 25m warm water program pool to cater for swimming lessons and hydrotherapy as well as constructing a children’s interactive play area. The gymnasium and circuit room will be improved and relocated downstairs while an extended group fitness area will be moved to the former gym area on the mezzanine floor. There will also be a general refurbishment of facilities, including a substantial upgrade to the change rooms.

It is estimated the redevelopment will increase patronage to the centre by 63,000 people per year and reduce the financial deficit.

Mr Cahoon said following the completion of the sustainability framework, architects Bollig Design Group would prepare detailed designs and documentation for the redevelopment. “We then plan to go out to tender for the construction works by April 2008 with a scheduled completion date of July 2009,” he said.