By Tate Papworth
Brimbank council will seek $25 million in funding from the state and federal governments to redevelop the St Albans Leisure Centre.
A business case for the re-development of the centre will soon be put forward.
Brimbank council will fund 50 per cent of the $50 million plan, but requires government support.
St Albans MP Natalie Suleyman said she supported the project, but stopped short of endorsing the full funding requested by the council.
She said Sport and Recreation Victoria had received an application from the council for $3 million for the leisure centre, but the remainder of the funding would have to be fully assessed.
“St Albans Leisure Centre is a much-loved facility and I fully support the redevelopment of this centre,” she said.
“The Andrews Labor government supports such proposals and the application is being considered on its merits as per the normal process,” she said.
Ms Suleyman earlier this year raised the issue in Parliament, saying she’d push to help make the proposal a reality.
“I have had a number of meetings with Brimbank City Council in relation to the redevelopment of this much-loved facility, which is located next door to my electorate office,” she said.
“I am no stranger to that facility – as a child, I have some fond memories of learning how to swim there.
“Together with my neighbouring colleagues, I know that we will support and advocate for the redevelopment of this project.”
The project has proved to be a popular one with the community. A pledge wall was erected last month at the centre.
The wall, in the centre’s foyer, is a way for centre users and community members to show their support for the redevelopment of the facility.
The wall was filled within a fortnight and additional panels installed.
