The Save Centennial Pool committee was formed to promote the continued existence of Centennial Pool. This was in response to a motion by HRM District 7 Councillor, Waye Mason, (text version, PDF version) passed unanimously by HRM Council in June 2022, directing staff to begin planning for the replacement of Centennial Pool and to outline the process to develop a new 50-metre pool, not on the peninsula, that meets Canada Games requirements for competitive swimming and diving.
The motion included the prioritization of the rebuilding of Needham Community Centre. Reasons cited by Councillor Mason for the disposal of Centennial Pool included that it is nearing the end of its useful life and for economic development. The staff report on the potential disposal of Centennial Pool is expected early in 2024.
The motion is flawed in that is does not consider the value of Centennial Pool in terms of its historical significance, its unique architectural importance, the impact on the community of health and wellness, its economic and social impact as well as the negative consequences related to climate change and the environment.
The motion is flawed when it suggests that prioritization of the Needham Pool will ensure continuity of municipal pool access on the peninsula and recover aquatic service to the area. Refurbishing or rebuilding Needham will NOT be able to compensate for the loss of Centennial.
Most concerning is that the motion asserts that Centennial Pool is at the end of its so-called “life cycle”.
There is no evidence that this is the case.
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