Friends Health & Fitness (FH&F) has a commitment to sustaining a quality facility for our members and visitors. As part of the FH&F Strategic Direction Document and Facility Management Plan, the pool hall is planned for maintenance works.
These works are a necessary component of-ongoing capital works to prolong the life of the building, improve functionality, and target reduced maintenance and operational costs to ensure the building continues to be fit for purpose.
As we progress towards clarification of the scope of the maintenance project, at this stage, there will be no major works to be undertaken during the 2024/25 summer period. Consequently, we are no longer planning a significant shutdown of the pool hall during the coming 2024/25 summer.
As we continue to gain clarity around the required works, we will keep all Staff, Members, Visit Pass Holders, Learn to Swim and Friends Swimming participants informed regarding any likely disruptions, providing as much notice as we possibly can. In this regard, an important aspect of this project is to carefully determine the scope of work with as minimal impact as possible on our members and patrons.
FAQs
Why is this project needed?
The pool hall was constructed in 1998 and has not had significant structural improvements since that time. This project aims to ensure improved aesthetics and insulation capabilities, as well as improved functionality.
The Board has approved an allocated budget for the project, which puts in motion the planning and investigations required to complete the works. Projects of this nature take significant time to work through communication, planning, and design prior to committing to delivery.
What will be the benefits when the project is completed?
To prolong the life of the building, improve functionality, and target reduced maintenance and operational costs.
Will the pool hall look different?
The design work has not been completed, but at this stage the overall appearance is not intended to be altered significantly.
Will there be less natural light?
The design work has not been completed, but at this stage the current level of natural light is intended to remain the same. The existing high light-transmitting, UV-absorbing glazed area of roof, is intended to remain.
How long will the project take?
More information will be available in due course, once investigations and designs are finalised.
What happens if it takes longer to construct than anticipated?
Updates will be provided to stakeholders as the project progresses.
How is the project funded?
It is funded by The Friends’ School Development Fund Board.
Will the cost of the project be passed on to facility users?
The costs of the project will not have a direct financial impact on members/users – it is a funded capital works project that is part of the Friends Health & Fitness Strategic Direction and ongoing Facility Management Plan.
I have a membership that gives me access to the pool, spa, steam room and/or aqua classes – will the pool hall be closed at all?
Updates will be provided to stakeholders as the project progresses. However, no significant shutdown of the pool hall is planned during the coming 2024/25 summer. All members and patrons will be informed of any likely disruptions with as much notice as possible.
I have a gym membership; can I still use the gym when the pool is closed?
Opening times and access to the gym and fitness classes will not be impacted.
I am an employee of FH&F; will my work be impacted?
It is best to contact your relevant Team Leader or Coordinator to discuss any possible impacts or changes expected during maintenance works in the pool hall.
My child attends Learn to Swim at Friends Health & Fitness – will this be affected?
Updates will be provided as the project progresses. No significant shutdown of the pool hall is planned during the coming 2024/25 summer. All members and patrons will be informed of any likely disruptions with as much notice as possible.
I am a member of the Friends Swimming squad program. How will this affect my training?
Updates will be provided as the project progresses, but it is intended that Friends Swimming will continue as normal, possibly training from a different venue if and when necessary. More information will be shared in due course.
Will the school be impacted by the project?
It is intended that disruption will be kept to a minimum, but access and egress, works zones, etc. during maintenance works in the pool hall are yet to be ascertained. If potential impacts are identified, the matters will be discussed with the relevant stakeholders.
Enquiries
If you have a question that is not answered above, please use this form:
All enquiries will receive a response within 7 working days of receipt.
We will continue to update our website and Frequently Asked Questions as more information is available.
Thank you for your patience and understanding as we work to maintain top quality facilities for you at Friends Health & Fitness.
