An expansion of Mariners Centre gets new life as it is given priority as a community recreation project.
What might be included?
Three and a half years ago a needs assessment was completed by community stakeholders and the three local municipal units with assistance from the Province of Nova Scotia. The full report is available along with possible floor plans on the Mariners Centre website.
AQUATIC CENTRE, GYMNASIUM, MULTIPURPOSE SPACE AND FITNESS
With the age of the YMCA building and the need for new facilities, the report recommends moving the operations of the YMCA to the Mariners Centre location and developing new fitness and aquatic spaces. This partnership is evident in the Pictou County Wellness Centre. A new standard size competition pool with a second warmer therapy pool would be more accessible and open up time and space for a number of aquatic recreation opportunities.
CURLING RINK
A curling surface is also an option for add-on and also needed in the region due to the age and upkeep of the current facility. Curling is accessible to people of all ages and also has a lot of local support for hosting bonspiels.
INDOOR WALKING TRACK
Facilities that include an indoor walking/running track indicate that it is very well used and a great investment in community recreation. Walking tracks are used by everyone; young and old and would be an obvious addition to a multi-purpose recreation facility.
MEETING SPACES, CHILD CARE, COMMUNITY KITCHEN, ROCK CLIMBING WALL AND FIELDHOUSE
Many other options exist both in the plan and in the minds of community members. Recreation services including programming and facilities are one of the most important items your tax dollars support. People choose to live and work in areas with good recreation opportunities for the whole family. Keeping recreation low cost is something our municipal units strive to do so it is accessible to all and keep our whole community healthier.
