Media Statement - 21st November 2007
A Rudd Labor Government will invest up to $600,000 to install a water re-use system at Croydon Leisure Centre Pool, undertake associated upgrading and sanitation works at the Croydon Memorial Pool and secure water supply for nearby parks and playing areas.
The Croydon Memorial Pool and the new 25m indoor pool currently under construction at the Croydon Leisure Centre will provide year round opportunities for water based recreation for people of all ages and abilities.
The $600,000 investment by a Federal Labor Government will fund a ‘backwash’ water system that will produce 5 million litres of A-grade treated water each year for the maintenance of wetland ponds and other outdoor facilities near the Croydon pools.
Local ovals and sports grounds have not been watered for the last 10 months and under the current Level 3A water restrictions will not receive any water over summer.
A local wetland in the park precinct dried to mud last summer – affecting many local ducks and other waterbirds – and a number of old, significant trees are under stress with lack of water.
The backwash system treats water that would otherwise go down the drain by removing chlorine and other contaminants. Water from the pool facilities will be treated through this system, providing water for surrounding ovals, recreational facilities and wetlands.
Labor will fund its investment in the water re-use system at the Croydon pools from the National Water Security Plan for Towns and Cities, under which a Rudd Labor Government will invest $250 million to:
- work in partnership with government and local water authorities to minimise water loss;
- invest in modern, more efficient water infrastructure and – where appropriate – refurbish older pipes and water systems; and
- provide funding for practical projects to save water.