The $1.25 million grant, through the Regional and Local Infrastructure Program, would see the complex undergo major renovations and additions to update the existing facilities.

The new initiatives to improve the environment efficiency of the complex would include the installation of 90 solar panels for heating and cooling which would provide up to 80 per cent of the pool’s energy requirements, modifications to the existing 25 metre pool surface to reduce water evaporation and heat loss, construction of a pool water treatment plant that would allow staff to isolate the temperature of each pool reducing the centre’s treatment and heating requirements and the installation of a 50,000 litre rainwater tank to reduce the facility’s reliance on the town’s water supply.

The Blayney Shire Council also plans to excavate the existing two smaller pools to create a new 18 metre x 12.5 metre multi-function pool to enhance access for disabled and elderly patrons.

Blayney Shire Mayor Bruce Kingham said that the ten year old facility needs the upgrade to maintain its reputation as a “first class facility for the Central West.”

“The funding will bring CentrePoint into the 21st century and will reduce the running costs of the facility,” he said.

The council also hopes to resurface the dry court area in the complex so it can be used for other shire functions and refurbish the toilets and change room facilities.

Chairman of the CentrePoint Board, Cr Allan Ewin, said that having a facility like CentrePoint in a shire the size of Blayney is a “masterstroke in these challenging times.”

“We have this magnificent facility and we need to be responsible and creative in keeping the facility in tip top condition,” he said.

“The costs associated with operating a facility that is environmentally responsible are substantial and this funding would certainly help our shire to achieve these outcomes.”