Parksville pushes pause on new aquatic centre

Lucas did not clarify what the “ecological communities” were and indicated a final report could be delivered to Council by the end of the month.

Parksville mayor Ed Mayne said hitting pause on the project was the only feasible option.

“When we took on this project we said we would look at it and if there was something that comes out of the woodwork, we would stop and re-evaluate at that point in time. Right now we’re not 100 per cent sure one way or another but until we are, we’re better off to put this on hold until we get the final report.”

Council unanimously approved three motions on Monday.

They agreed to allow time for WSP to finalize their report and no further studies on Despard would be commissioned with existing budget allocated to alternative sites.

It was also agreed public consultation would begin in the summer and carry through the fall.

While council awaits the report, the City is asking for community members to help form an advisory working group to help guide the project forward.

The project is a long sought-after upgrade for the region and moved into a detailed design phase in February.

It will include an indoor pool, separate leisure pool, gymnasium and indoor fitness track among other facilities.

The City has capped its spending desire at $50 million for the expansive project, which would make it the most expensive initiative of its kind in Parksville’s history.

Two other locations were previously pitched by the City for the project: Jensen Ave. and off Industrial Way at the southern edge of Parksville.

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alex.rawnsley@pattisonmedia.com

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by Alex Rawnsley

Parksville pushes pause on new aquatic centre

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