Works continue on the Ballarat Aquatic and Lifestyle Centre (BALC) Changing Places and All Abilities Upgrades project, which will provide greater opportunities for people with disability and accessibility needs to participate in active recreation.
With Stage 1 works now complete, patrons with a Master Locksmiths Access Key (MLAK) can access the new Changing Places facility. A MLAK is a special universal key that gives people with disability access to locked public facilities across Australia.
At BALC, automatic doors have also been installed across the health club and all studios to increase accessibility. Construction of a second Changing Places facility and an Accessible Adult Change facility is now underway as part of the project’s staged delivery.
Over the coming months, two new accessible family change rooms will be constructed, while the existing accessible and family change rooms will be refreshed. The project will also deliver a range of broader accessibility improvements throughout the centre.
The project has received more than $748,000 in funding through the Victorian Government’s Regional Community Sports Infrastructure Fund, alongside a contribution of more than $449,000 from the City of Ballarat.
City of Ballarat Mayor, Cr Tracey Hargreaves said the upgrades demonstrate Council’s ongoing commitment to making Ballarat a more inclusive and accessible community for everyone.
“The new Changing Places facility at BALC will make a real difference for members of our community by improving access and creating a more welcoming experience for all users,” she said.
“I look forward to seeing the remaining stages of the project delivered in the coming months and the lasting benefits these improvements will bring to our community for years to come.”
Minister for Community Sport Ros Spence said it’s great to see Stage 1 works complete and the transformation of this important community asset into a more accessible facility well and truly underway.
“These game-changing upgrades, supported by the Carroll Labor Government, will give more locals the opportunity to enjoy active lifestyles and take part in an even wider range of aquatic activities.”
For more information on the Ballarat Aquatic and Lifestyle Centre Changing Places and All Abilities Upgrades project visit the project webpage.
