City of Nanaimo acquires land for future community centre in south end

The City of Nanaimo announced it has purchased land in the Chase River neighbourhood for a future community centre. The $5.1 million budget to acquire the properties was funded in part by a $2.5 million contribution from the Province of British Columbia’s Growing Communities Fund.

The purchases help address a long-standing need for recreational and gathering spaces in the south end of Nanaimo. City Council has identified a community centre for the area as one of its top three priorities.

“This is an investment in our residents and in the future of our growing city. With the distinction of being one of Canada’s fastest growing cities, we have to start planning ahead for easy access to public spaces that bring people together. Purchasing this land brings us one step closer to delivering the kind of inclusive and accessible amenities that our city needs and deserves,” said Leonard Krog, Mayor, City of Nanaimo.

Planning for the new community centre will be guided by a feasibility study already in progress, further community engagement and must align with City Plan: Nanaimo ReImagined. City Council will consider next steps at a future public meeting.

“A community centre builds a sense of belonging, with kids, parents and grandparents building friendships that last a lifetime. We’ll keep investing in communities throughout B.C., bringing the services and spaces people need closer to home that keep pace with our growing communities,” said Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs.

The City of Nanaimo’s south end has long been identified as lacking sufficient community amenities, a challenge that has been highlighted in several City planning documents over the past two decades and has been identified as one of City Council’s top three priorities.

“The new Chase River Community Centre means more chances for people in Nanaimo to gather, connect, and build the kind of neighborhoods we’re proud to call home. By working with local governments here and across B.C., we’re creating spaces that bring people together and strengthen the fabric of our communities,” said George Anderson, MLA for Nanaimo-Lantzville.

Featured image: (City of Nanaimo)