EA Networks Centre has launched a survey to collect people’s thoughts on the facility and look at how it might serve the needs of the community in the future.

The Council wants to hear back from those who use the facility, as well as those who don’t. The responses will help staff review what services the community want to see on offer from the EA Networks Centre.

Council Community Services Group manager Steve Fabish said the sports facility was well equipped and the survey was about understanding the patterns of utilisation of the community as well as identifying any new services could help attract more users.

“It’s really about gathering information on how people use the facility and how we can develop new opportunities for the community. It’s been seven years since the centre opened and so it is timely to take a close look.

“It doesn’t matter if you are a regular or occasional user, or don’t use it at all, we want to know your thoughts.”

EA Networks Centre was opened in 2015 and includes swimming pools, fitness centre and indoor courts used by many local sports teams. It’s also houses a café, community meeting rooms and sells swimming equipment. The centre is well-known for learn-to-swim classes and offers specialist programmes for people recovering from illness or injury.

Council Community Services Group manager Steve Fabish said Covid-19 had had a big impact on the fitness and recreation sector and many people had changed the way they exercised.

“We want to make sure we are still offering services that the community expects and wants, so we really value people taking the time to give us feedback.”

The survey is being conducted independently by Visitor Solutions, on behalf of Council, and takes 5-10 minutes to complete. The Ashburton District Council is also consulting residents on a draft Play, Active Recreation and Sport strategy.

All responses go into the draw to win one of 10 one-month platinum memberships (full access to all facilities for one month).

You can take part in the survey here until 5pm, Monday 16 May.