The people of Richmond are getting the first glimpse of what their new pool inside the $80 million Minoru Recreation Complex might look like when it’s completed in June 2017.
Artist’s renderings of the pool, seniors’ centre and building exterior were revealed during Mayor Malcolm Brodie’s annual address to the Richmond Chamber of Commerce on Friday.
Within a few hours of being posted on the Richmond News’ Facebook page, the image of the pool sparked great interest among readers, with many people still aggrieved over the planned size of the pool, set to be 25 metres-long.
The rendering, however, does not show the intended 25-metre pool, with only secondary pools visible.
When the plans were first announced, many residents had expressed a desire for a larger, 50-metre pool. However, the extra cost for the bigger pool — $8 million — was considered prohibitive by Richmond city council.
The 110,000 square-foot complex will house improved aquatic spaces — including a 25-metre pool — more dedicated space for seniors, a fitness centre, multi-purpose rooms and change rooms for outdoor athletes.
The new complex, when built, is expected to eventually replace the existing, 56-year-old Minoru Aquatic Centre and Minoru Seniors Centre.
City staff have noted previously that the new aquatics facility should host a greater variety of pools and activities than what currently exists at Minoru.
The new seniors' centre will house a games room, activity room, fireplace lounge and woodworking shop, among other things.
