Construction of Tamworth’s long-anticipated Aquatic, Education and Health Centre of Excellence is a step closer, with Tamworth Regional Council to consider entering an Early Contractor Involvement (ECI) agreement at its meeting this week.
The $45 million Stage 1 project, to be built at the Tamworth Sports and Entertainment Precinct on Jack Smyth Drive, is funded by a $15 million commitment from the NSW Government, $9 million from the Australian Government and a $21 million contribution from Council.
Mayor Russell Webb said the ECI approach would help reduce risk and give all funding partners confidence in the project’s delivery.
“It is a proven method in getting a high degree of confidence in project affordability as the engaged contractor is required to work with Council and other engaged consultants to finalise the project scope before committing to a Design and Construct Contract,” Mayor Webb said.
“Council will be able to provide its funding partners with important construction industry insights to assure them the project is guided by experts with understanding of current market conditions.
“The contractor will provide technical advice about buildability, construction methods, cost planning and value engineering to ensure the design is practical, efficient and aligns with the budget as well as the expectations of Council, stakeholders and the local community.
“These are all critical factors for successful project delivery.”
The proposed facility has already attracted recognition, taking out the Strategic and Master Planning category in the NSW/ACT Parks and Leisure Australia Awards. It is now in the running for a national award in November.
Construction of Stage 1 is scheduled to begin in early 2026, with completion expected by mid-2027 in line with funding agreements.
The design includes a 50-metre indoor pool with a central swim wall and moveable floor, a 17m x 10m warm water pool, spa and sauna, and accessible amenities and change rooms. A foyer, reception and café, spectator seating, first aid room, and administration offices are also part of the scope.
The centre will also feature a sports science and testing lab, allied health consulting rooms, educational teaching and meeting spaces, a gym, and car parking facilities.
Council approved the concept design for the facility in May 2024, noting it would be delivered in stages as additional funding becomes available. The design aims to maximise functionality and revenue potential while minimising long-term operational costs.
The Centre of Excellence forms a key part of Tamworth Regional Council’s Blueprint 100 strategy, which aims to support population growth and create a more liveable region through enhanced recreation and health infrastructure.
Council has committed to keeping the Tamworth South and West Memorial (Scully) Pool open until the new centre is operational to ensure no loss of access for existing user groups.
While the Centre of Excellence progresses, Council has also flagged its continued commitment to the proposed Tamworth Adventure Pool, to be built on the site of the existing Olympic Pool. Although funding is not yet secured, the Adventure Pool remains a priority, with plans for free entry to encourage inclusive community access.
“This is a once-in-a-generation investment in regional health, wellbeing and sporting excellence,” Mayor Webb said.
“It’s exciting to see this project take shape after years of planning and community consultation.”
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