Summit Aquatic and Leisure Centre reaches major milestone
Construction contractor Kennett has now fulfilled all requirements under the contract, with the centre ready to operate. The pools are filled, heated, and ready for use. Council’s selected operator, Belgravia Leisure, has taken control of the site, moving in gym equipment and training staff ahead of the highly anticipated public opening in August.
The new $51.8 million facility represents a transformative step forward for the region. Replacing the 70-year-old Mountain Pool, it responds to the needs of a rapidly growing community.
Developed and funded in partnership with the Australian Government ($15 million) and South Australian Government ($7.3 million), the project has been delivered ahead of schedule and within budget - a major achievement in today’s challenging construction landscape.
Designed through extensive community consultation, the centre includes a 25-metre indoor lap pool, warm water therapy pool, leisure and play pools, learn-to-swim area, gym, crèche, café, community rooms, and a Changing Places adult change facility – the first of its kind in the Adelaide Hills.
Mount Barker Mayor David Leach said the project demonstrates Council’s commitment to health, wellbeing, and long-term planning.
“This is not just a pool – it’s an investment in our future. It will deliver benefits for residents of all ages and abilities, and support growth across the wider Summit Sport and Recreation precinct,” Mayor Leach said.
Beyond recreation, the centre leads the way in sustainability. The entire facility is all-electric, featuring high-efficiency heat pumps, rooftop solar panels, rainwater harvesting, EV charging stations, ultra-fine pool filtration, and a rain garden to filter stormwater and recharge the groundwater.
The design also allows for future expansion, with space set aside for an outdoor 50-metre pool, splash pad, waterslides, and indoor courts — ensuring the centre can grow with the community.
Inclusivity has been a core focus throughout. The therapy pool supports rehabilitation and gentle exercise for people with mobility challenges and chronic conditions, while the Changing Places facility ensures the site is accessible to everyone.
In addition to fitness programs and swim lessons, the centre is expected to stimulate local economic growth through job creation, increased visitation, and investment in the region.
Delivered in partnership with national architecture firm DesignInc, Kennett Builders, and Belgravia Leisure, the Summit Aquatic and Leisure Centre sets a new benchmark for regional facilities.
As the council prepares to officially open the centre in August 2025, the project stands as a proud example of what can be achieved through strategic vision, community engagement, and collaboration.
