FAQs
- Needs analysis completed as part of the 10 year strategic plan
- Corporate report on the master plan
- Facility and amenity inventory
- Strategic plan
Why is a new recreation centre being built for Newton and what will it include?
In December 2020, Council approved a plan to build a new community centre in Newton as part of the Surrey Invests Capital Projects Program to meet the growing demand for recreation services in this community.
The initial development of Newton Community Centre will include 10 lane 50m lap pool, leisure pool, lazy river, water attractions, large family hot tub, sauna and steam rooms, multi-purpose spaces, fitness centre, licensed childcare, and indoor and outdoor amenities. A future development addition will include a library, recreation and culture amenities.
What transition is expected at the current Wave Pool facility following the project?
The Newton Recreation Centre (with wave pool) opened in 1987 and was renovated and expanded in 2017 to meet the needs of the local growing population projections at the time. However, since the original build Newton community has increased significantly. Due to its dominant leisure design nature the existing the Newton Wave Pool has very limited capacity for accommodating or offering lap swims, training and other programs and sports activities.
What is the cost of this project and funding source?
The budget for this project is $100M. This project was approved in the Five-Year (2022-2026) Capital Financial Plan. There were no direct grant contributions included for the broader project but $3million was received toward the childcare development component.
Who are the contractors?
Taylor Kurtz Architecture + Design Inc. in association with MacLennan Jenkins Miller Architects Ltd. to provide design and professional services.
Graham Construction and Engineering LP to provide preconstruction and general contracting services.
When will the new facility be completed?
The new facility is anticipated to be completed in 2025.
What will happen to current facilities (wave pool, rec centre, arena, Newton Seniors Centre) when the new facility is completed?
The Newton Recreation Centre will remain open until the new facility is operational. Assessment of the existing faciality will be conducted to determine its future use.
Why was this particular site selected for the Newton Community Centre?
The site at 6965 King George Blvd is centrally located in Newton area. The proposed property is easily accessed by transit, vehicles and pedestrians. Its central location near the business centre of the Newton community meets the City’s goal to have highly walkable communities. It creates opportunities to anchor both ends of the central hub with important amenities while serving both the west and east sides of King George Blvd.
Why is the Newton Community Centre located in a separate location from the existing Parks, Recreation, Culture and Library campus of services?
As the City is continually looking at opportunities to expand services and capacity, our real estate division is always looking at new properties and sites that offer potential. This site became available recently and it fits many of the site requirements and is compatible with the Newton Town Centre land use plan. The site itself is located within the town centre or central business districted designated central hub of the Newton Community. It creates opportunities to anchor both ends of the central hub with important amenities while serving both the west and east sides of King George Blvd.
What potential is there for expanded library services?
The initial development of Newton Community Centre is being designed to accommodate a future expansion that would include a library, multipurpose gymnasium and culture amenities. Future facility expansion including timeline and design concepts will be identified in due course through community and stakeholder engagement.
How will the building meet the city’s sustainability standards?
The Newton Community Centre Facility will offer a state-of-the-art community hub for Newton residents of all ages to learn, exercise, and to enjoy a fun and healthy environment. The Newton Community Centre will be a sustainable facility designed to the most stringent energy performance standards, such as Net Zero Carbon and Passive House. The Newton Community Centre Facility is proposed to be energy efficient and will be designed to meet the City’s goals under the Sustainability Charter, the Wood First Policy, and accessibility initiatives. The new facility will support the City’s Greenhouse Gas Emissions reduction targets.
Will there be volunteer opportunities at the new facility?
Staff will explore volunteer opportunities and can provide more details once the facility is complete.
What guides the development of the new community centre?
What engagement occurred for the project?
The city conducted extended consultation with the public and stakeholders along with surveys, virtual and in-person open houses, forums and feedback received through our online engagement platform enabling more online discussion and dialogue. Guided by the City’s recently adopted public engagement strategy, the goal was to involve the public in the most meaningful way possible so that we can plan a multi-functional space that builds on and strengthens the Newton community.