For release on Feb 19, 2025
Town of Wynyard to Begin Planning for New Aquatic Facility
Wynyard, Sask. February 2025- The Mayor and Town Council are pleased to announce that the Town of Wynyard is making plans for the construction of a new Aquatic Facility. The cost of repairs and maintenance of the aging infrastructure at the current facility has prompted a shift in focus towards a new build, which promises better efficiency, safety, and fun for years to come.
In 2024 a major leak in the paddling pool prompted the closure of the beloved facility for the summer. Technicians were unable to provide a complete cost estimate for repairs but determined a minimum of $50,000 would be required. Two pool maintenance companies also affirmed that there would be no crew available to make repairs until 2026. The Wynyard Paddling Pool was built in 2003. The liner alone would be upwards of $40,000 to replace following repairs, and even if it was spared in the repair process it is nearing end of life and will need to be replaced within the next 5 years.
The Wynyard Swimming Pool was built in 1983. In 2013 a liner was installed at a cost of $65,000 which was guaranteed to extend the life of the pool for 10 years. This liner is also reaching end of life, and the cost to replace could be double the original cost. In addition to liners, other aspects of the infrastructure are showing their age and the technicians who assessed the damage this summer suggested that major repairs for the main pool will be required within the next 5 years.
The pool is a valued and essential facility to the community. Hundreds of children access swimming lessons to develop essential life skills every year. Many former residents have built a tradition of bringing their children “home” to spend time with grandparents and take swimming lessons each summer creating a reunion-like atmosphere. The pool is accessible and affordable to community members across cultural and socio-economic boundaries.
A decision was made to permanently close the paddling pool in favour of directing funds towards a new build rather than repair the aging facility. In January of 2025 the Wynyard Town Council authorized the Director of Leisure Services to proceed with planning and fundraising for a new aquatic Centre. The Council welcomes input from the community regarding what they would like to see at the new facility, what community priorities are and how they want the facility to be funded. Residents are encouraged to fill out a survey that will be available at townofwynyard.com, on town social media and in hardcopy. Once the feedback is collected, Council will set funding targets, timeline goals and decide on design priorities before releasing Requests for Quotes and choosing a builder.
For more information, please contact:
Dana Stefanson, Director of Leisure Services, 306-554-3661
Mayor Sigourney Hoytfox and Council also welcome your feedback and questions. Citizens are invited to contact any council member with your comments or concerns and please fill out the survey at the link below to contribute to the plans for this exciting new project.