FEW Launceston developments have elicited such strong opinions as the Launceston Aquatic Centre.
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Some view it as a white elephant on the hilltop, costing ratepayers millions to build and not returning a profit.
Others see it as a necessary health and recreation centre for a city Launceston's size - a venue very much to be proud of.
When the city first started talking about a new pool, it was envisioned to be part of a multi-purpose site to complement the sports facility at Elphin.
All three levels of government were poised to contribute to the construction before then-prime minister John Howard pulled the pin on federal funding. So the plans were changed to redevelop the existing pool at Windmill Hill.
Nearby residents were not happy about its size and the extra traffic in their area while gym owners were furious that ratepayers were setting up competition to their businesses. Work was completed in 2009 at a cost of $26.3 million and the facility opened, minus the gym.
With the exception of concerns about its operating deficit, criticism of the facility has largely died down - until recently.
Both the Launceston Aquatic Club and the South Esk Swimming Club have raised concerns about the cost of lane hire at the facility.
The clubs charge about $1000 for juniors and $2000 for senior swimmers a year.
When compared to registration fees for other sports, it seems excessive, with one president saying the sport was becoming elitist because of the cost.
It would certainly be a shame if talented young swimmers had to give up the sport because of the financial burden. That does not appear to be the case: while one club has lost 75 members, the other has tripled its membership.
Obviously the council has to recoup some of its costs and there should clearly be fees for using the facility.
That is why it is good to see the council indicating it will work with the clubs to find a solution.