The preliminary designs for the new Aldergrove community centre call for a smaller pool than some residents would like.
The plans for the site of the former Aldergrove Elementary school site at Fraser Highway and 270 Street were presented to Langley Township council Monday night with the final report of the standing committee on the Aldergrove community centre.
As presented, the new facility will have a smaller pool than the 50-metre, eight-lane "long course" swimming pool some residents want because it could accommodate a provincial swim meet.
Al versions of the community centre presented to council call for a 25-metre, six lane "short course" pool instead.
Committee chair councillor Bob Long said there simply isn't enough room on the site.
"There's not enough property there, number one, and number two, the cost would be extremely high," Long said.
However, he stressed no final decision has been made."
"We haven't said no to anything," Long added.
David Leavers, the Recreation, Culture, and Parks director made the same point during his presentation, noting the designs could change.
"This is by no means the final concept," Leavers said.
While the layout and look may be modified, one thing that is unlikely to change is the decision to build a new hockey arena as part of the complex, eather than keep the 40-year-old Aldergrove Community Arena (ACA) going.
The ACA, the report stated, has a life expectancy of "about 10" more years, and doesn't meet the latest building code and seismic standards.
The new arena will cost less to maintain and be more energy efficient as well.
The plans call for conversion of the heritage school into a library.
If everything goes according to plan, Leavers said the new facility could open in 2015.
Earlier this month, Langley Township council approved the controversial sale of Township-owned land in Glen Valley to help fund the new community centre, swimming pool and ice rink in Aldergrove.
While the Township waits for the sales to proceed, it will use money from surplus funds and reserves, as well as short-term borrowing "of less than five years" to fund construction of the Aldergrove Community Centre.