The group’s chairman Phil Murray says a regional-standard centre could even have the potential to be a training venue for the 2030 Commonwealth Games, if Newcastle lodges a successful bid.

Cessnock City Council voted on November 2 to explore further options after a feasibility and design report revealed that a special rate variation would be required to fund the council’s preferred design (a combined indoor/outdoor facility with a long-course outdoor pool).

When the council adopted its draft aquatic needs analysis in September 2014, it stated a centre with a 51-metre indoor pool was the preferred option.

The pool users group says council should stick to that decision.

“An outdoor 51-metre pool won’t maximise investment, that’s contradictory – it will be closed half the year,” Mr Murray said.

The group wasn’t willing to reveal what they would concede from the high-embellishment option for it to become more affordable.

While some members weren’t too fussed on paying extra rates (5.5 to eight percent over 15 years, depending on the centre’s design), others said they would happily pay it, as there would be a tangible outcome.

Group member Dennis Moore said he did not see a lot of evidence of the results of council’s most recent special rate variations (9.06 percent in 2011 and 9.55 percent in 2014), which were designated for roads renewal.

“Where has all that money gone?” Mr Moore said.

“At least in the long run, we’ll get an aquatic centre.”

Group member Diane Partridge said she was disappointed that a decision on the pool had been delayed once again, so the new councillors can be brought up to speed on the processes.

“Once again we’re back at square one,” she said.

“The new councillors should have done their homework.”

A report will be presented to council outlining facility options that do not require an special rate variation.

Potential funding sources that will be further considered include development contributions and external funding (grants).