The matter was last before Port Macquarie-Hastings Council mid-last year when councillors decided to continue the existing management arrangements for another 12 months, to review the tender specification and to call for fresh tenders in early 2014.

In line with that decision, tenders for the lease, management and operation of the council-owned swimming pools at Port Macquarie, Wauchope, Laurieton and Kendall pools close on May 1.

Council's group manager recreation and buildings Liam Bulley said in developing the tender documentation, the council had consulted with swimming clubs and Swimming NSW to ensure usage rights currently enjoyed by all three swimming clubs in the local government area would be protected under the new five-year agreement.

Mr Bulley said a tenderer could lodge a tender for the lease, management and operation of one or more swimming pool complexes.

He said council would appoint a contractor to operate each swimming complex and may appoint the same contractor to operate more than one swimming pool complex.

A report is expected for consideration at the May 21 council meeting.