Barnaby Joyce is throwing his support behind a plan to build a new hydrotherapy pool in Armidale.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Key to Armidale Regional Council's vision is construction of a new hydrotherapy pool and regional health complex, for which it has sought funding from the federal government.
And it has got the support of the Member for New England.
"As I noted in my representations to the Minister, the new facility would provide ongoing health, fitness, rehabilitation, water safety, sporting and social benefits to thousands of residents in the Armidale region for many years to come," Mr Joyce said.
The pool replacement is high on council's priority list alongside projects such as the proposed New England and North West Business Innovation Hub in Armidale, which it has also sought federal funding for and is also backed by Mr Joyce.
"Just like the millions of dollars of investment we're already delivering for similar projects around the electorate, it's all helping to provide a better standard of living for people in Armidale and across the New England," he said.
At the time, executive director Regional and Rural Health Services Susan Heyman said it was due to the ongoing challenges of keeping it running in line with health and safety standards, and, "In recognition of Armidale council's funding to build a new, fit-for-purpose hydrotherapy pool for the community".
Council's contribution to the project was to be $394,000.
Mayor Simon Murray said a committee chaired by Cr Peter Bailey was working on the project, and he said the council was trying to get more money to assist with ongoing costs. He said that would include insulation and heating.