At an Orange City Council meeting on May 10, Orange City Council technical services director Chris Devitt said there are some issues with the allocation of lanes and users have had their times reduced to accommodate all requests.

“Our bids for lanes always exceeds what is available,” he said.

“Everyone who put in a bid didn’t get what they asked for - some people aren’t happy.”

Councillor Glenn Taylor agreed, saying certain groups had come forward voicing their concerns.

“Our pool is a victim of its own success - we just don’t have all the hours and all the lanes that are required,” he said.

“I have had a lot of questions asked of me about individual clubs and their lane allocations.”

However, not all groups are concerned that lane times have been reduced.

Jets swimming coach Michael Thornhill said the club had been working closely with others and said the lane allocations had not become an issue for his club.

“Jets are quite happy with the lane allocations council have given to us for winter and the direction moving forward,” he said.

“We’re working closely with City of Orange Swimming Club and have a very similar outlook on what we’re trying to do at the Orange Aquatic Centre.”

Representative of City of Orange Swim Club Matt French said council’s learn to swim classes must also take priority.

“We understand that there is a big push at the moment for learn to swim which is fantastic - we want kids to learn how to swim and then move into the two clubs,” he said.

“The public keeps the aquatic centre going so I understand they need their time and lanes as well.

“Council have been very good to deal with - we’ve been able to voice our opinion and work very closely together.”

bryson.ferreira@fairfaxmedia.com.au