City Council Assets and Business Adviser Peter Walls says that once the Council has received the proposals and selected an architect, the concept plans would be available to the public for their comment and input.

“We’ll also be consulting the Fendalton/Waimairi Community Board on issues relating to the park’s upgrade,” he says.

The upgrade of the complex is estimated at $5.5million. The work involves upgrading existing Jellie Park aquatic and other facilities, addressing the age and condition of the plant and buildings, and making sure the facility can meet the future needs of the area.

Mr Walls says following consultation with users of the complex, the areas seen as priorities include; upgrading the changing rooms and showers including family changing areas; addressing water space constraints and temperature issues; providing an additional lap pool (25m four-lane) and teaching spaces; the provision of spa, steam room and sauna facilities; a childcare facility; reroofing the gym and potentially expanding the gym area; and upgrading the walkway between the pool and the change room.

The upgrade could involve the closure of the complex for some months.

“We can’t say how long for, until we have the plans finalised,” says Mr Walls.

Work on the complex would get under way at a time to cause as little inconvenience as possible to users.