The Otago Therapeutic Pool, also known as the Physio Pool, is a hydrotherapy pool located in Dunedin, New Zealand. Currently, the future of the pool is undecided, and the Otago Therapeutic Pool Trust is seeking community support to determine whether to redevelop the existing pool or build a brand new one. To gather public opinions, a short survey will be open from Monday 6 November until Friday 1 December.
A hydrotherapy pool is a special type of pool designed for therapeutic purposes. It offers numerous benefits compared to land-based physiotherapy, such as reduced joint stress, increased range of motion, improved muscle strength and coordination, and enhanced relaxation. The Physio Pool aims to provide a space where individuals can engage in hydrotherapy to support their rehabilitation and wellness.
The survey aims to collect feedback on whether the Physio Pool should be upgraded or if a new pool should be constructed. Participants are encouraged to share their thoughts on the features and amenities they believe should be included in a new pool if one were to be built.
Public feedback plays a crucial role in the decision-making process. The Otago Therapeutic Pool Trust will carefully consider all input received through the survey and any messages of community support emailed to them. Additionally, a feasibility study is being conducted to evaluate the options and costs associated with redeveloping the existing pool or constructing a new one. The study involves a team of consultants with expertise in swimming pool design and development, who will assess the state of the Physio Pool infrastructure, explore alternative sites for a new pool, evaluate long-term financial viability, and provide recommendations to the trust.
Te Whatu Ora Health New Zealand, the owner of the Physio Pool, and the Dunedin City Council are actively assisting with the feasibility study by supplying relevant information to the consultant team. A consultation group has also been formed to provide feedback throughout the study's stages.
It is expected that the feasibility study will be completed by the end of this year. Based on the study's recommendations and the trust's decisions, the next steps would involve securing long-term site tenure, conducting fundraising efforts, and then proceeding with detailed design and construction.
The Otago Therapeutic Pool Trust is committed to ensuring public access to hydrotherapy in Dunedin. The closure of the existing Physio Pool in 2021 necessitates determining the best path forward for a new or upgraded pool. The exact cost of the project and its funding sources are yet to be determined, and the trust will work towards securing the necessary funds once the decision is made.
In terms of the timeline, the project's duration will depend on various factors, such as securing the site, fundraising success, and the intricacies of design and construction. However, the trust is dedicated to moving the project forward as efficiently as possible to meet the community's needs.
The closure of the existing Physio Pool was prompted by a range of factors, and the decision to redevelop or build a new pool stemmed from the desire to continue providing hydrotherapy services to the community. The Otago Therapeutic Pool Trust acknowledges that hydrotherapy is a valuable resource for rehabilitation and well-being, and they are committed to delivering a facility that meets this need.
Ultimately, the final decision on the project rests with the Otago Therapeutic Pool Trust. The trust will carefully consider the feasibility study's recommendations, the survey results, and the community's input before making a final determination.
For those who wish to support the initiative for a hydrotherapy pool, there are several ways to contribute. Sharing feedback through the survey and sending messages of community support via email are valuable means of showing endorsement. Individuals can also reach out to the Otago Therapeutic Pool Trust if they have any questions or require additional information.
The Otago Therapeutic Pool Trust, together with its project management firm, Feldspar Associates, is dedicated to conducting a comprehensive feasibility study to determine the best course of action for the hydrotherapy pool in Dunedin. They aim to create a modern and accessible facility that meets the community's needs for therapeutic swimming and rehabilitation. By actively involving the community, they hope to turn the idea of a new or upgraded pool into a reality.