Pool upgrade delayed

An Otaki Pool upgrade has stalled because construction companies are getting better offers to work elsewhere.

Kapiti Coast District Council received just a single tender for work with a budget of about $5.35 million in its long term plan.

Work was meant to start on October 31 but now construction will start early next year if a second call for tenders goes well. The second round of tendering would finish in November.

Parks and recreation manager Alison Law said the council has heard from construction companies saying the market is competitive, and there are other big contracts on offer in the Wellington region.

‘‘We remain committed to redeveloping the pool, but want to ensure we’re getting value for money on behalf of our ratepayers as it is a significant investment.’’

A finish date has not been announced, but the work is expected to take eight months to complete.

What is planned in the development?

The pool’s cladding and roof will be rebuilt. There will be a ramp into the pool. The filtration system for the toddlers and main pool will be separated. A splash pad will be built next to the pool complex. There will be an upgrade of the air-handling system. There will be wooden cladding facing the car park, in front of the building.