BRIEF
To design an attractive, functional, community aquatic centre that will accommodate the future adjacent sports facility; to be appropriate for the location, environment and community of the South Island’s rugged west coast.  Use of the local abundance of coal as an energy source to be incorporated into the design which is to be compliant with all relevant emission controls.

PROJECT OUTLINE

• 2900sq m floor area.
• 25 x 20m main pool with 3m deep area to accommodate underwater sports.
• Combined learners’, toddlers’ and therapeutic pools with waterfall, ramp entry, and water features.
• Spa pool and sauna room.
• Twin hydroslides.
• Myrtha Pool technology.
• Existing War Memorial plaques relocated and incorporated into the exterior courtyard design.
• Foyer water feature showcasing an invaluable large Pounamu (green stone) gifted by local iwi Ngati Waewae.
• Impressive entrance & courtyard canopies.
• Spacious foyer catering for future gymnasium entry.
• Children’s play pen.
• Energy efficiency enhanced by heat recovery.
• Heating plant commissioned for maximum efficiency and output with minimum emissions.
• Water treatment systems utilising UV and DE technology to provide attractive internal conditions.

LHTDESIGN’S SCOPE OF WORKS
As principal consultants, LHTDesign led the design team (including ASC Architects, lighting and electrical engineers LDP Ltd, and quantity surveyors, Rawlinsons) and controlled and co-ordinated the development of the concept through to the completion of documentation and administration of construction.

LHTDesign had particular responsibility for mechanical, fire, structural, water quality design services, plus construction monitoring, contract administration and acted as engineer for the contract.

OUTCOME
The $11M project was the culmination of six years of community and council fundraising.

Grey District Council is delighted with its new facility and Mayor Tony Kokshoorn, describes the aquatic centre as “a gem which stands as a tribute to the wonderful community spirit from people throughout the West Coast region”.  This spirit is evident in the fact that direct ratepayer funding was only $1.5M of the final $11M cost.

At the official opening in June 2009, Mayor Kokshoorn described the new centre as “a stand-out” facility that exceeded expectations which would benefit the community for years to come.

REFERENCE
For a client’s perspective on this project please contact Tony Kokshoorn, Mayor, Grey District Council.  Phone (03) 769 8600.