The work, which will cost about half of the $3 million spent nine years ago to build the centre, is needed to meet health and safety regulations, replace plant, reduce maintenance and make the centre more efficient, possibly saving ratepayers up to $140,000 a year.
It will be paid for by a loan not exceeding $685,000 and from reserves and depreciation.
The corporate services committee had recommended the work go ahead, but that needed final approval from the council which was given yesterday.
Cr Jim Hopkins was concerned about the cost and thought priorities should be set on the various items included in the project.
If the council approved the expenditure, it might not encourage managers to show prudence or re-evaluate the works schedule, he said.
The work had to be done, Cr Hopkins acknowledged, but it was "tight times" and all options had to be investigated.
However, Cr Pam Spite said those concerns were raised at the committee meeting, and had been covered.
Cr Peter Garvan said the aquatic centre had been operating for nine years and it was time it was brought up to standard, as well as making operational savings.
