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 to be upgraded in about 12 months’ time (internal walls and ceilings as well as the external roof).
This work is 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. The Project is being managed by an external consultant, reporting to the Centre Manager.
The pool, spa, and steam room will not be available for use during the construction phase of this Project, which will likely be over summer of 2024/2025.
There will be no changes to gym access and fitness classes, with the exception of Aqua classes, during this time.
We are communicating with all Staff, Members, Visit Pass Holders, Learn to Swim and Friends Swimming participants on the expected impacts and what we are doing to support key stakeholders.
FAQs
Why does the roof need replacing?
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 for the long term.
Why will the replacement not be completed until 2025?
The Board has now approved an allocated budget for the project, which puts in motion the planning required to meet the targeted completion timeframe. Projects of this nature take significant time to work through communication, planning, and design, and take similar lengths of time to deliver.
What will be the benefits when the replacement is completed?
To prolong the life of the building, improve functionality, and target reduced maintenance and operational costs.
Will the new roof look different?
The design work has not been completed, but at this stage the overall height and 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 it take to replace the roof?
Construction will likely take at least eight weeks. More information will be available once a contractor is selected, and designs are finalised.
What happens if it takes longer to construct than anticipated?
Updates will be provided to stakeholders as the project progresses.
Who will design the replacement roof?
At this stage a contractor has not been selected but an architect has been engaged to provide some concept designs.
Who will build the replacement roof?
At this stage a contractor has not been selected.
How is the replacement roof cost funded?
It is funded by The Friends’ School Development Fund Board.
Will the cost of the roof replacement 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, what will happen when the pool is closed?
Updates will be provided to stakeholders as the project progresses. But at this stage, it is intended that we will be able to provide a firmer update for members in mid-2024.
I have a gym membership; can I still use the gym when the pool is closed?
It is intended 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 contact your relevant Team Leader or Coordinator to discuss any possible impacts or changes to your way of working.
My child attends Learn to Swim at Friends Health & Fitness, will this be affected?
Updates will be provided as the project progresses. It is possible that Term 4 2024 and/or Term 1 2025 Learn to Swim programs may be delivered over a slightly reduced number of weeks, subject to the project timeline which is not yet known.
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, training from a different venue during the construction phase of the project. More information will be shared in due course.
Will the school be impacted by the roof replacement?
It is intended that disruption will be kept to a minimum, but access and egress, works zones, etc. during construction have 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.
