Matsqui Village Pool has seen its last swimmer.
After years of debate, the facility has been closed in favour of a new playground and washrooms.
Opened in the 1960s in Matsqui Village Park, the small outdoor pool was closed last season, due to a leak that was saturating the
surrounding soil with chlorinated water.
An inspection revealed several leaks throughout the tank. An estimated $1 million would have been needed to bring the pool up to code and another $70,000 a year in operating costs.
Capital funding of $250,000 will be spent to
demolish the pool tank and building and set up the playground, designed for kids age two to 12. It will cost $5,000 annually for upkeep.
The pool’s fate has been up in the air for years. Staff had recommended closing it in 2002 but a backlash from Matsqui Village residents kept it running.
“I feel like we are destroying a piece of history here, and a way of life,” said Coun. Patricia Ross. However, she agreed with
council’s decision.
Residents will be consulted about what kind of playground equipment is to be installed.