The ACT Government is under fire following revelations that a needs analysis report, which was purportedly used to justify changes to the Phillip pool, does not exist. This development was confirmed by Sports Minister Yvette Berry during an interview with Ross Solly on 666 ABC Radio, sparking significant public and political backlash.
Minister Berry’s admission came after The Canberra Times reported that no such analysis had been conducted, despite previous claims. The controversy centers around the decision to reduce the Phillip pool to 25 meters, a move that has been met with community resistance and demands for transparency.
Community Outrage and Political Fallout
During the radio interview, Minister Berry made comments about independent member for Murrumbidgee, Fiona Carrick, who has been a vocal critic of the government’s handling of the pool’s future. Berry described Carrick as “very, very agitated” and “frustrated,” suggesting that the opposition to the government’s stance was irrational.
The situation has drawn comparisons to the satirical TV series “Utopia,” with critics suggesting that the government’s explanations are convoluted and lack substance. The absence of the needs analysis report raises questions about the decision-making process behind the pool’s redesign.
The Missing Report
The ACT Government initially claimed that a needs analysis had determined that a 25-meter pool would suffice for the Woden community. However, when pressed, Minister Berry conceded that the analysis was nothing more than internal communications and emails, rather than a formal report.
“The needs assessment referred to in the hearing consists solely of advice to EPSDD contained in emails or other communications discussing the appropriate pool size for Woden,” Minister Berry admitted in a letter to the Select Committee on Estimates chair, Liberal MLA Ed Cocks.
This revelation has fueled speculation that the pool’s reduction was influenced by development interests, particularly given that Geocon plans to build nearly 700 units on the site.
Government Response and Future Implications
Despite the backlash, Minister Berry maintains that the decision was based on contemporary approaches to aquatic facilities. She emphasized that the new development would include a state-of-the-art aquatic center, which she believes will be well-received by the community.
Berry also left the door open for a future government to consider building a new 50-meter outdoor pool in Woden, a sentiment echoed by Chief Minister Andrew Barr. However, this prospect remains uncertain and would require substantial investment and planning.
Calls for Accountability
Community leaders, including Martin Miller, a former president of the Woden Valley Community Council, have called for greater accountability. Miller, who initiated Freedom of Information requests to locate the needs analysis, criticized the government’s lack of transparency and urged Geocon to reconsider its plans for the site.
“The government should negotiate a surrender of the lease and make the pool a true public asset,” Miller argued, reflecting a broader sentiment among residents who feel sidelined in the decision-making process.
Looking Ahead
The controversy over the Phillip pool is emblematic of broader tensions between development interests and community needs in the ACT. As the government moves forward, it faces the challenge of rebuilding trust with residents and ensuring that future decisions are grounded in comprehensive and transparent analyses.
For now, the community awaits further developments and hopes for a resolution that aligns with their interests and the long-term vision for Woden’s recreational facilities.
