Glen Dhu Primary School works

The Tasmanian Government will reallocate pool upgrade funding, after an engineering report found that pipework at the Glen Dhu pool was at imminent risk of failure.

The Tasmanian Government had previously made a $3.45 million commitment to upgrading the pool, however it is estimated that a new pool would cost tens of millions of dollars.

Minister for Education, Jo Palmer, acknowledged the history and fond memories some in the school community had for the Glen Dhu pool next door.

“The Government was committed to maintaining the pool, however following initial upgrades of the pool’s filtration and thermal systems, the investigation found the pipework was badly corroded and at imminent risk of failure, meaning the core asset has failed and maintenance and upgrade works are no longer possible,’’ Minister Palmer said.

“This is very disappointing news that has unfortunately forced the decision upon us.

“While the Glen Dhu pool has, in the past, been an important part of our learn to swim program for Tasmanian students, its closure in recent years has not impacted the program.

“The learn to swim program continues to be provided to all students at facilities including the Launceston Leisure & Aquatic Centre at Windmill Hill.

“To further support our swimming program in light of this situation, we will work with stakeholders to review the availability of learn to swim facilities to ensure they keep up with demand into the future.”

Minister Palmer said the reallocation of funds would benefit students and the wider Glen Dhu school community, through new and upgraded learning facilities, as well as parking and traffic management which has been raised as an issue in recent times. 

This is on top of the $750,000 development of a new general learning and kindergarten outdoor space announced in May.

The Department of Education, Children and Young People will engage with the school principal and the school association to develop a scope of works for the site. 

We will ensure that the disappointment is turned into new opportunities for this school community.

As part of our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future, we’re building on our record investment in education infrastructure, which will now include prioritising investment in facilities at the Glen Dhu Primary School for staff and students to enjoy.