Gisborne South-based Splash Buddies Swim School could be forced to shut down if its bid to relocate is rejected.
Owner Rynelle Mills told Macedon Ranges Shire councillors last week that the school could no longer operate from its current site.
“At our current Gisborne South location we have no ability to heat our pool year-round and unfortunately we’ve explored every option,” Ms Mills said.
“Failing this, unfortunately means closing down our business and therefore 470 kids will be out of swimming lessons and 15 staff out of employment. It would put pressure on an already overcrowded / at-capacity Gisborne Aquatic Centre.”
Ms Mills seeks to move the swim school to Pioneer Way in the New Gisborne Industrial Estate but requires approval to operate a recreation facility in the zone.
In 2021, the council approved a permit for two warehouses at the site, each with 32-car parking spaces. The proposal is to change the existing use for one of those warehouses to an indoor recreation facility.
The proposed floor plan includes two swimming pools, a pilates studio, change room facilities and a reception area with associated car parking.
Previous recreational businesses have operated from the industrial estate including those for gymnastics and fitness.
Ms Mills said the MRSC draft Gisborne Futures plan listed recreation as “appropriate and needed” for both industrial and commercial land.
“Since reopening after the pandemic every swim school in our shire and surrounding shires have wait lists,” she said.
“We provide a service that is needed and expected in our community… We hope that we can continue having the positive impact we’re having in the community.”
Macedon Ranges Shire Council will consider the proposal at the next scheduled council meeting.
