Swimming lessons for North Dunedin children have been kept afloat after government funding was announced for rebuilding at a local school pool.
The 1950s era building housing the pool at Dunedin North Intermediate was in need of an immediate rebuild, with sagging ceiling panels and damage from chlorine and humidity in the current structure.
The Ministry of Education announced it would provide $312,500 towards the $500,000 needed for the rebuild.
The remainder was being covered by the Dunedin City Council which promised $187,500 of funding in its 10-year plan in June.
The ministry funding meant that the five North Dunedin primary schools would no longer need to find money in their budgets to contribute to the project, and further external funding sources would not need to be found.
Previously George Street Normal School, North East Valley Normal School, Opoho School, Pine Hill School and Sacred Heart School were going to contribute $125,000, with each school chipping in a pro-rated amount equal to $140 per pupil.
Although the pool was located at Dunedin North Intermediate, it was too small for its pupils to use.
Dunedin MP Dr David Clark said the confirmation of funding for the repairs was a big win for children in North Dunedin.
‘‘Swimming is an integral part of any childhood and having a facility like this saved means close to a thousand children can get the swimming lessons they desperately need.’’
