TEAM Supports a 50m Pool at the Vancouver Aquatic Centre

The renewal of the Vancouver Aquatic Centre should include a 50-metre pool as originally proposed, say TEAM for a Livable Vancouver candidates Colleen Hardwick and Theodore Abbott.

Vancouver, BC (Apr. 3, 2025): During the 2022 municipal election, a plebiscite vote secured funding for the replacement, renewal or rehabilitation of the Vancouver Aquatic Centre, including replacement of the 50-metre pool. TEAM believes that because this is what voters approved, this is what should be provided.

Instead, on March 31, 2025, the project was approved with only a 25-metre pool, in spite of significant community objections, including a petition of more than 15,000 signatures.

TEAM believes the people of the city have clearly shown they want the commitment to a 50-metre pool respected. TEAM has updated its Parks and Recreation Policy to include the following Action Item No. 26:

Reconsider the Vancouver Aquatic Centre replacement to include a 50 metre pool as originally approved by voters for the capital plan, including investigating the feasibility of renovating the existing building if that is the only way to keep a 50 metre pool.

If elected, TEAM will ensure every effort is made to retain a 50-metre pool at the Vancouver Aquatic Centre.

Theodore and Colleen, who is a former Vancouver Dolphin swimmer, strongly believe in the importance of sufficient and appropriate aquatic facilities to meet the needs of Vancouver residents.