35-41 Villiers Street, which is the site of the former Cypress Pines Caravan Park.

The current aquatic centre will continue to operate until the new aquatic precinct is operational. Council have not made any commitments for the treatment of the current Aquatic Centre site. Council will consider various options as the design progresses.

Council undertook detailed feasibility studies to ensure the project is financially sustainable and planned for the long term. These studies found that the indoor/outdoor pool concept would create significant cost pressures and operational challenges, making it unsustainable for a facility designed to serve the community well into the future. The updated design ensures the project remains sustainable, affordable, and aligned with community needs.

While the indoor/outdoor pool concept was innovative and exciting, further research and detailed investigations showed it did not align with Council’s commitment to being financially responsible and planning for a sustainable future. To ensure the facility remains affordable and meets community needs long-term, the design now includes a 50m outdoor pool, 25m indoor pool, along with an indoor learn-to-swim and toddler pool. This design provides a diverse range of swimming options for all users.

Yes. In developing the updated design, Council carefully considered the needs of all user groups, including competitive swimmers, learn-to-swim, families and recreational users.

• The original indoor/outdoor 50m pool (including boom, operable door, and hard structure) has been replaced with a fully outdoor 50m pool.
• A new 25m indoor pool has been added to the design.
• The Learn to Swim pool is now directly connected to the toddler pool, creating a more integrated space for families.
• The plant room servicing the pool hall has been relocated next to the amenities. This change will reduce both capital and operational costs by shortening the distance between pools and equipment

Yes, community feedback played a key role in shaping the updated design. Input gathered through earlier consultation and the Stakeholder Reference Group directly influenced key features, including the indoor learn-to-swim pool, toddler pool, gym facilities, and landscaped recreation areas. These inclusions reflect the priorities and ideas shared by local residents and user groups, helping to ensure the precinct aligns with community needs.

We have recently moved into the detailed design stage. The earlier stage focused on concept design, which is about exploring ideas and possibilities for the facility. Detailed investigations such as cost analysis, technical requirements, and layout planning occur during detailed design, which is why these findings are now available.

Council has received strong and constructive feedback throughout the consultation process, and it’s made a real impact. The updated design reflects what we heard from the broader community and the Stakeholder Reference Group- especially around key features and priorities. While this stage is focused on sharing the updated design rather than launching a new round of consultation, Council will continue to share information and consider community feedback throughout the project.

• What pools will be included in the new design?
  • 50m outdoor pool with eight lanes and disabled access. This pool will include heating to extend usability during cooler months.
  • 25m indoor lap pool with disabled access.
  • Indoor learn-to-swim pool.
  • Indoor toddler pool
  The 25m indoor lap pool, learn-to-swim pool and toddler pool will provide year-round swimming opportunities.

The updated design includes gym facilities, flexible office space and amenities. The multi-purpose room originally co-located next to the gym, has been removed following feedback on existing hireable spaces within Chinchilla.

The updated design introduces several enhancements to better serve the community: improved accessibility, increased water space during winter months and more open landscaped areas for general recreation while seamlessly connecting to the Botanic Parklands.

In addition to swimming and water play, the precinct will support a range of community uses. The gym and landscaped recreation areas offer space for fitness, relaxation, and social gatherings. The café and connected pathways make it a great spot for meeting up, enjoying the Botanic Parklands, or attending events. It’s designed to be a vibrant, multi-use destination for all ages.

Yes. The design includes disabled parking, ramps, amenities and pool access features to ensure inclusivity.

Yes. The design includes covered grandstand seating. In addition, extra shaded areas and seating will be provided around the pools and recreation spaces.

Yes. The design includes covered grandstand seating. In addition, extra shaded areas and seating will be provided around the pools and recreation spaces.

Yes. The design includes on-street car parking and bus parking areas.

The change is about ensuring the project is sustainable and affordable for the long term. Detailed feasibility studies found the original indoor/outdoor pool concept would create significant challenges, making it unsustainable for the community. Therefore, removing the indoor/outdoor pool reduces construction and operational costs while still delivering a high-quality and inclusive facility.

The updated design is more cost-effective while still providing all essential features for the community. Detailed cost information will be shared as the project progresses. The focus remains on delivering a high-quality, sustainable facility within the approved budget.

Yes. The updated design significantly reduces energy and maintenance costs compared to the original concept.

Yes. The updated design ensures the project remains within the approved budget.

Construction timelines will be confirmed soon. Updates will be provided on the project page as milestones are reached.

The opening date will be announced closer to the completion of construction.