FAQs - September 2011
Frequently asked questions about the Hawthorn Aquatic & Leisure Centre project.
What’s happening at HALC?
This exciting $27 million project will see the current HALC building demolished and redeveloped to accommodate growing local interest in general health opportunities.
The new two-level Centre has been designed with careful attention to both equality of access and environment sustainability. It will feature a new wider 50m outdoor pool, a 20m x 10m indoor warm water program pool, expanded fitness program rooms and crèche facilities, an enlarged gymnasium, a café with WiFi access, and public toilets.
The project also includes comprehensive re-landscaping of the site.
Who are the architects?
Suters Architects have been appointed to provide architectural services for both the HALC and Kew Recreation Centre (KRC) projects.
When is HALC closing?
As of 3 January 2012, HALC will temporarily close for approximately two years during construction works. The redeveloped HALC is anticipated to be open for business during the summer period 2013 - 2014.
How will I continue to be updated on the HALC closure?
The closure of HALC has been publicly promoted since the planning and consultation phases of the project, late in 2009. Project communications have included Project Bulletins, member emails, FAQs, on site displays and information on our website.
A website tailored to providing specific redevelopment details is currently being developed and is due to be launched shortly.
Why will it take two years to complete?
This timeline factors in elements such as demolition works and the clearing of the site. It is a realistic construction period for a facility development of this size and complexity.
Why close before the summer holidays?
The construction industry traditionally closes down over the Christmas and New Year period. During this time, site clearing and early works will commence at the HALC site to prepare for construction works to begin as early as possible after this break.
Why can't the pool stay open while other works start?
There are occupational health and safety issues associated with the pool remaining open around active demolition and construction works.
Will my HALC membership continue?
You can maintain your membership at a nearby Boroondara leisure and aquatic facility during the temporary closure and your membership will be automatically transferred to the centre of your choice.
New HALC membership prices will be consistent with the other Boroondara facilities.
Will I have to pay to rejoin the new HALC if I suspend or cancel my membership?
You won't have to pay a rejoining fee if you rejoin within six weeks of cancelling your membership. If you rejoin within six months of cancelling your membership, you will receive a 50% discount off the joining fee.
Membership suspensions of more than four weeks per year will incur a small fee however we encourage you to keep your membership current and continue to enjoy the quality facilities within the municipality.
Will I be compensated during the closure?
If you retain your HALC membership during the closure, you have the option to attend alternative Boroondara leisure and aquatic centres at no additional cost.
During the closure, HALC members will be entitled to four complementary personal training sessions per year. Loyal members will be identified via a platinum and gold status membership card (depending on the type of membership) which will entitle them to merchandise and café benefits once the new HALC is open.
What are my alternative facility options?
We encourage you to continue your exercise regime at the four alternative Council leisure and aquatic facilities:
• Kew Recreation Centre (KRC) - phone 9853 6177
• Boroondara Sports Complex (BSC) - phone 9851 0444
• Ashburton Pool and Recreation Centre (APARC) - phone 9885 0333
• Balwyn Leisure Centre (BLC) - phone 9857 8031.
Specific program details are being finalised and the YMCA will communicate information to members about reciprocal facility access options for during the temporary closure period.
Won't alternative local facilities be too busy to cater for us?
KRC and BSC are the two closest Boroondara leisure and aquatic facilities to HALC. Both facilities have recently undergone gym developments and will be equipped to cater for relocated HALC users to minimise the impact on Boroondara aquatic and leisure centre members.
KRC is in the final stages of a $4.7 million improvement works program and the BSC outdoor 50m pool will be programmed to cater for as many existing users as possible and is one of many local pool alternatives.
Will you monitor usage and space allocation at the other centres?
The YMCA and Council will continue to monitor attendance levels and programs at other Boroondara leisure and aquatic facilities. We acknowledge there will be added pressures at locations closest to HALC but are confident the recent works in expanding the health and fitness areas will assist to accommodate temporarily relocated HALC members.
Outdoor 50m lap lanes are already busy - will pool usage be modified?
Existing pool usage at alternative facilities is locked in with established user group agreements however the BSC has assisted to accommodate some of the main HALC user groups with lane bookings. The YMCA will continue to monitor group use and requirements to ensure the minimum number of public access lanes is not compromised.
Do you prioritise between casual pool users and the classes or squads?
A minimum of four lanes at BSC and a minimum of two lanes at KRC and APARC are expected to be available for lap swimmers. The only time an aquatic facility will be unavailable for group use is when it is closed for special events such as school carnivals. Users will be given plenty of notice regarding availability.
How will car parking at the alternative facilities be managed?
Car parking will be stretched at other sites during the temporary HALC closure and we thank you for your patience during this time. Please consider sustainable transport options and 'Green Travel' alternatives such as bike riding and public transport for your commute to the various centres.
When will I know the alternative program timetables for specific classes?
The YMCA is coordinating program timetables and working to ensure suitable alternatives are available for all users. Information will be made available to HALC members soon.
What will happen to the existing pool water?
Council is investigating environmentally sound solutions for recycling the existing pool water and we will keep you informed as details develop.
What will happen to the YMCA staff?
The YMCA is continuing to coordinate staff redeployment and it's expected all permanent staff will be redeployed. Staff members are being kept fully informed and those who are attached to key programs are likely to accompany the same program to the new centres.
How can I keep informed?
• Visit our main project page or register for project updates.
• For any membership matters: email Andrew Hamer, YMCA HALC Redevelopment Manager, or phone 8862 9100.
• For specific project information: email Paul Bennett, Leisure Facilities Development Officer, or phone 9278 4774.
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