Ceiling damage closes Aquatic Centre for extensive period of time
By Nelson Daily Staff
Regional District of Central Kootenay staff has confirmed the Nelson and District Community Complex pool will be closed for an extensive period of time after a portion of the ceiling fell into the pool area during an aqua fit class Monday.
Regional District staff made the announcement at a media conference Wednesday afternoon.
“Our initial information is that the T-bar ceiling will have to be removed and this could take some time, so our pool staff and clients will definitely be affected,” said Joe Chirico, General Manager of Community Services.
Chirico, along with Area E directors Ramona Faust, Nelson City Councillor Deb Kozak, RDCK CEO Brian Carruthers, Greg Lawrence and other RDCK staff, told the media attending the public is going to have to live without the pool, sauna, steam room and hot tub at the NDCC for an undetermined period due the faulty ceiling.
The fitness center including the change rooms and ice arena remain open.
The RDCK is now awaiting professional advice on specific steps necessary to fix the problem ceiling.
Initial assessment of the damaged ceiling determined the roof structure and the building are structurally sound.
Finding money to fix the aging facility will take some creative planning by RDCK staff.
However, Carruthers said getting the pool up and running is a priority.
In the meantime, the RDCK is cancelling all pool bookings until March 31.
All aquatic programs are cancelled for the remainder of the winter session or until March 31 — including spring break.
Depending upon the program, customers may receive a pro-rated or a full refund of registration fees.
The RDCK is also developing a plan to address current pass holders by February 7, and will incorporate the closure period into that plan.
The Nelson and District Aquatic Centre was built in 1975, mainly through fundraising and walk-a-thons from Balfour to Nelson by the community and for many years was the only indoor pool in the West Kootenay.
The facility was renovated in 1985 and expanded 1994 when the kids pool was built.
Chirico said the RDCK would continue to update the public during closure of the pool.
Anyone with questions about refunds can phone the NDCC Customer Service Desk beginning February 1 at 250-354-4386 or email NelsonRec@rdck.bc.ca
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