Editor: The sod has just been turned to mark the start on the construction of the new Aldergrove Recreation Center proclaimed to be a 12 month of the year facility for all ages to enjoy. Sounds great, but have a look at the plans on their website.
You would think that the planning department for the Township of Langley would have been capable of designing an indoor swimming pool that actually has a roof over it within their budget. Seemingly that’s not the case. The proposed Aldergrove Recreation Centre will have an outdoor swimming pool which will only be used when the weather is nice. On average about four months each year.
I suppose an Aldergrove Polar Bear Swim on New Year’s morning would appeal to the more hardy among us, but for us lesser mortals who love to enjoy the benefits and pleasure of a swimming pool all year round without freezing to death have literally been left out in the cold.
We are told there is not enough money in the budget for a roof. It’s a bit late in the day to tell us that. Nobody mentioned that when the plans were first announced for a new facility with a “state of the art indoor pool” about four years ago.
An outdoor swimming pool in Aldergrove! Why waste our money?
I notice that the well connected hockey fraternity have been well looked after by the planning department. They have a nice new ice rink (with a roof), with 550 retractable seats, offices and lots more.
I suppose since ice hockey is the national religion its not so surprising. I still feel it is totally unfair. Mind you the spin off heat from the ice rink will used to heat the pool.
Try not to think about getting from the changing rooms to the pool, and back again, in mid January, wearing only a swim suit and bare feet.
Which brings me to my point. The federal election campaign is now in full swing with all the promises being handed out by all the parties in exchange for our votes. Money, no problem, trust us they say. So how about a roof for our pool? A sure fire winner.
It would appeal to the keen swimmers of all stripes and ages, Mums and Dads who take their kids to splash around and slide down the slide. Don’t forget the aged and infirmed who can actually exercise in the pool and enjoy it. Swimming classes for the schools, the list goes on. I bet that would amount to a whole lot of votes. It would certainly get mine. I am surprised our mayor and Township council have not thought of this.
Or have they?
Bernard Major,
Langley