By BRIDGET SCOTT
Writing’s on the wall for abandoned graffiti ridden pool…
A derelict eyesore in Cranbourne which has become home to graffiti artists will undergo a huge transformation, following an announcement that the former Cranbourne Swimming Pools site will become a 24 hour gym.
Images captured by the News showed the current state of what used to be the Cranbourne pools and has now become a colourful site masked by criminal activity.
However plans to totally transform the site along Grant Street have been revealed with works on a huge gymnasium to commence in the coming weeks.
It is expected the facility will be complete later this year, creating about 20 new jobs once finished.
President of the Cranbourne Turf Club Neil Bainbridge and Committee of Management president Geoff Whiffin have both said how pleased they are with the outcome.
Mr Bainbridge, who is also a part of the recreation reserve committee, said the committee of management called for expressions of interest for its redevelopment.
He said this developer, which will be revealed in the next few weeks, was the sole candidate.
“We think it will be a very good development and return what was once a great community asset,” he said.
“We were really pleased when they came forward and put together a really positive proposal.”
Mr Whiffin said he will be pleased to see it returned to its former glory.
“The Cranbourne Racing Centre and Recreation Reserve Committee of Management are delighted that the facility will undergo a major revamp so it can again be utilised by the local community,” he said.
“It’s an important site for many residents of Cranbourne who enjoyed its usage as the former heated pool centre and I’m sure this announcement will be welcomed by many who wanted this returned for community use.”
Mr Bainbridge said more details will follow the announcement, including the features of the centre.
Mr Whiffin said the 24 hour fitness centre will be a “great fit” for the Cranbourne Racing Precinct.
“It will be beneficial to the likes of jockeys, track riders and other industry participants in supporting their racing and training activities, as well as the wider community,” he said.
“The racing precinct is an important part of the Cranbourne community and this new facility will only further enhance and support it.”
