There are two top contenders for the location of a new aquatic centre. The consultation company presented all of their options to council last night, which included the Mac, the Whitney, and the Hollinger Golf Course. However Consultant Jonathan Hack says their top two options are the current Archie Dillon location, or building a new facility on Highway 655, across from Gillies Lake.
He says they pre-screened all of their options, and put those together to either say “yes” or “no” to all of the locations. Some options, like the Mac and the Hollinger Golf Course, were a straight no. But the Sporstplex and 655 topped the list.
Hack says the Sportsplex is the right size, makes use of an existing location, has parking, and has both local and regional access. The space on 655 gives the potential to think long-term, to build additional facilities. Hack says that means not only a recreation and aquatic centre, but also some outdoor uses as well. However there will be some additional costs to address the condition of the site, and doesn’t make use of an existing location.
The consultants are going to do a cost analysis at both sites, and bring those options back to council in April for further consideration.