Aquatic Centre Planning Begins – South Winnipeg Recreation Campus

Very exciting news to share! In the 2026 budget process, Council allocated $1.5 million to design an aquatic centre that will be attached to the first phase of the South Winnipeg Recreation Campus- the gyms, running track, meeting rooms and more! The aquatic centre is a project I’ve been working hard on moving forward for a number of years, and am very pleased to have secured the initial funding to start planning and design!

The aquatic centre will be part of the South Winnipeg Recreation Campus – a complex designed as a ‘regional recreation centre’ meaning that while the regional recreation centre directly serves area residents, it also supports residents in an area of 4-6 km surrounding the centre. Regional centres bring multiple activities together in one place, instead of having buildings that only serve one purpose, like a stand alone pool.

• I will note, a 2024 Stats Canada population update estimated the Waverley West ward at 71,000 people.
• For comparison, the City of Brandon’s population is estimated at 59,899 people.
• And most City wards, on average encompass ~ 55,000 residents.

Currently, there are no City-owned or operated recreational centres in southwest Winnipeg that combine a pool with other recreation spaces, like gymnasiums.  The Winnipeg Recreation Strategy identifies the South Winnipeg Recreation Campus as a regional recreation centre that can fill this gap.

The aquatic centre is anticipated to include:

• A lap pool
• A leisure pool
• A lazy river
• Water slides
• Spray features
• Diving boards
• A whirlpool/hot tub
• A steam room
• A multi-purpose room for classes, birthday parties, etc.
• A viewing area

The Request for Proposals seeking a consulting firm was posted today. Once the consulting firm is selected, the design and outreach to stakeholders will begin – anticipated for spring (2026).

A draft design of the aquatic facility will be shared with residents in early 2027 to gather resident’s feedback. It is important to note that currently, there is no timeline or funding in place for construction of the aquatic centre. I’ve been observing similar centres being built around the country and the price tag for aquatics ranges anywhere from $40 – $60 million.  So – now my mission is to seek funding!

Stay informed on this project by signing up at: Engage Winnipeg – South Winnipeg Recreation Campus