Pickering Council yesterday announced it has awarded the design and associated costs required for the Seaton Recreation Complex & Library to design and architecture firm, Perkins & Will Canada Inc.
This state-of-the-art facility, slated for Pickering’s growing community of Seaton, will be the largest project in the city’s history and represent the first multipurpose recreation complex built in Pickering in over 40 years, according to a city statement.
It did not mention the proposed facility’s budget.
“Selecting the right architect is a pivotal moment in seeing the Seaton Recreation Complex & Library come to fruition, as it brings visionary design and expertise to the forefront, transforming our shared dreams into tangible reality,” said Mayor Kevin Ashe. “Pickering is experiencing significant population growth, and with that, comes higher demand for growth-related infrastructure like community/recreation facilities, libraries, fire stations, roads, and more. Together, we will ensure that this new facility not only meets the practical needs of our community, but also enlivens the neighbourhood, becoming a beacon of innovation, sustainability, and communal pride.”
The facility will be located at the re-aligned Whitevale Road (future Alexander Knox) and Sideline 24 (future Burkholder Drive), sitting on a total project site of approximately 25 acres.
Amenities are envisioned to include:
1. Aquatics Centre (with 25-metre, 6-8 lane pool and separate warm water leisure pool)
2. Gymnasium (divisible)
3. Fitness Centre and Studios
4. Full Service Library (with collections, Maker Space, printing centre, small meeting rooms, teen area, children’s area, and work/study spaces)
5. Multi-purpose Program Rooms (various)
6. Arena (2 pads)
7. Walking Track
8. Support Spaces (e.g., lobby, change rooms, office space, storage)
9. Outdoor Spaces (e.g., destination playground, splash pad, sport courts)
Community Engagement
The final amenities and functional programs for the Seaton Recreation Complex & Library will be guided by the city’s Recreation & Parks – Ten Year Plan, the Pickering Public Library’s Strategic Plan, and most importantly, community consultation.
Community consultation will be at the core of informing this transformative new space, ensuring accessible and inclusive programs and services to support the diverse and evolving needs of residents now, and into the future.
Tentative Project Timeline:
- Summer 2024 – Perkins & Will Canada Inc. will create three proposed facility design concepts.
- October 2024 – Community engagement on the three proposed facility design concepts.
- December 2024 – Report to Council with summary of community feedback on the three proposed facility design concepts; and, for Council’s selection of the preferred design concept.
- 2025 – Completion of detailed design of the preferred design concept; and request to Council for pre-approval of general contractor for the construction of the Seaton Recreation Complex & Library.
- Spring 2026 – Award and start of construction, subject to Council approval.
- Spring 2029 – Anticipated opening.
Visit LetsTalkPickering.ca/Seaton for project details, future updates, and opportunities to participate.
You May Also Wish To Read
Durham residents to mark Terry Fox’s run through Bowmanville