Leeming Rec Centre’s Future Sealed

Mayor Russell Aubrey described this resolution as a win for the whole City, as it meant substantial cost savings over the next 10 years while the community retained access to this facility and to extended services.

“This landmark outcome comes as a result of strong governance and sound decision-making by Council – and a commitment to refocusing the management and delivery of service at the centre. It demonstrates what we are trying to achieve across the City in terms of infrastructure rationalisation and reducing the rates burden as much as possible. This resolution follows substantial efforts by the City to ensure a balance between providing services that are suitable and cost-effective, and involving and engaging our key stakeholders. All interest groups have now agreed to this being a successful resolution,” he said.

Chief Executive Officer Dr Shayne Silcox said the City estimated an approximate $800,000 annual saving, compared with 2007/2008 actual costs to operate the facility. “This saving will be redistributed into other products and services in the community as appropriate,” he said.

"The City has been focused on achieving a community outcome where recreational activities are still supplied, but by a private party, which reduces the financial burden on the City of Melville ratepayers. It is disappointing that finalisation of this matter has been delayed by political interference," he said.

“However, I appreciate the support of all concerned and congratulate the Ward Councillors and Mayor for their resolve during this tedious and involved process. The City staff involved have also shown first-class professionalism in dealing with the matter. We now look forward to operating the lease and trust it delivers the benefits we all hope for,” he said.

Mayor Aubrey said proposed recreational activities included the introduction of: indoor cricket competitions; professional cricket coaching; holiday camps; specialist programs; children’s use of the gymnasium; and a sports store. “This is in addition to the continued offering of: indoor netball and soccer; a gymnasium; circuit and group training. Squash courts will also be refurbished with the possibility of reinstating courts previously converted to program spaces,” he said.

“The pool has now been decommissioned, however, it is anticipated that this area will get greater public utilisation and therefore provide greater community benefit under the new lease. Leeming Senior High School will also retain the same level of access to the centre,” he said. “Under the new lessee, the centre will also accommodate opportunities for viable, alternative recreational programs supported by the community.”

Dr Silcox said as part of the lease agreement, Leeming Recreation Indoor Sports had the City’s endorsement to go through the process of applying for a liquor licence – as was an accepted practice with indoor sports centres. “However, if approved, this licence would be unlikely to operate during school hours. Additionally, if it were agreed to by the licensing body, the licence could be revoked at any time if conditions of the licence are not adhered to, or there are too many complaints. The City has also appointed an architect and is putting together tender specifications for necessary repair work to the centre’s roof. The cost and timing of this is subject to the tender process, however, the City has made a budget allowance for the work, and it will be done in consultation with the new operators,” he said.