Corner Brook's new recreation centre scheduled to open in September 2024

Corner Brook's new regional recreation centre should be open for public use by September2024, according to Mayor Jim Parsons, who says the construction of the new building is almost complete.

"Our city needs a modern aquatic centre and this is it," Parsons told CBC News in a recent interview.

But the $25-million project is about $1million over budget, due to some issues with existing infrastructure.

The building will house a new training pool, children's pool, child-care centre, fitness centre, gymnasium and a multipurpose room.

New pool

The new community pool will beconstructed on the back of Memorial University's Grenfellcampus building.

The former university pool closed in 2015 andneeded major restoration work, and thenew centre is using some of the campus infrastructure.

"I am very happy to say that the original footprint is still there butit's being replaced with a new modern technology," said Parsons.

"Also that room is expanding far toward the rear of the campus to include a therapeutic pool,lazy river withbeach entry."

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30 child-care spaces

The child-care centre, to the right of the pool, will have space for 30 children and an infant room with an outdoor playing area.

Parsons said it's "desperately needed."

"Anyone who has had to deal with child care in the last few years knows how hard it is to find quality daycare," he said.

Students at the Grenfell campus will have access to the facility along with people living in the area.

The $25-million project is being cost-shared bythe city, the province and the federal government.

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