Scottsdale Aquatic Centre - Indoor Pool Feasibility Assessment

A 2025/2026 budget allocation has been provided to investigate the feasibility of an indoor pool within the Scottsdale Aquatic Centre facility. 
 

Please note: this is a feasibility assessment only and does not guarantee further works.

Current Project Status:

At the June 22 Council Meeting, Council endorsed to progress with a feasibility assessment into the options for enclosing and year-round operations at the Scottsdale Aquatic Centre.

Recommendation: That Council endorse development of a feasibility assessment for options regarding enclosing and year round operations of the existing outdoor 25m pool at the Scottsdale Aquatic Centre.

The requirements of an indoor pool vary significantly from those of an outdoor pool because, in addition to maintaining water temperature, the facility must also control air temperature and humidity. Water evaporating from the pool surface increases indoor moisture levels, requiring specialised heating, ventilation and dehumidification systems to ensure user comfort, maintain air quality, minimise evaporation, and prevent condensation, mould growth, corrosion and damage to the building structure. While lessons can be drawn from comparable facilities, factors such as the number of lanes, building design, user groups, operating hours, and local climate conditions all influence the size, cost and long-term sustainability of a facility. These variables are particularly relevant in Dorset, making it essential that any proposal is informed by a site-specific feasibility assessment that reflects the unique needs, circumstances and expectations of the local community.

The feasibility assessment will look to determine current and future demand, as well as undertake life cycle costings, operational modelling, and recommendations for viable implementation and operation.

The report will help guide Council to a decision either for or against enclosure over the pool as well as establish a platform for any future community consultation.

The Request for Quote (RFQ) process for engaging a consultant to undertake the project has recently concluded with preferred supplier @Leisure selected.

This project is part of the Dorset: Future Ready project.

Updated October 2026

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