Therapeutic pool would cost $4.7M

A proposal to put a therapeutic pool in the Lionel E. Lalonde Centre in Azilda would cost about $4.7 million, as well as $279,000 a year to operate.

“With the aging population, there is an increasing demand for therapeutic pools and programs aimed at rehabilitation/recovery and low-impact exercise,” says a study authored by Monteith Brown Planning Consultants Ltd. and Yallowega Belanger Architecture. “Demand is also expected to rise with the increasing rate of joint replacement surgeries and the long-term therapy requirements they bring.”

With the city's increased focus on healthy living in recent years, the need to have an indoor pool where older people can recuperate and stay healthy has been growing.

“Time and again, indoor aquatic components are rated amongst the most desirable leisure facilities as they serve the entire spectrum of residents,” the report says.

However, the project is unfunded and money would have to be found for construction and operation. And locating the pool in Azilda would be a challenge, the report says, because “Rayside-Balfour area’s population is smaller than the typical threshold for municipal aquatic facility provision.”

However, it would be unique within the city, a fact that may help draw more users from across Greater Sudbury. Building a pool for therapeutic and some leisure uses would allow it to attract a greater number of users, and is the recommended option.

Other aspects of the pool study includes:
-Warmer water, around 32-34 C;
-Programming that focuses on post-recovery aquatic rehabilitation programs and swim lessons for younger children;
-A small active living studio for dryland programs to complement the existing fitness centre and gymnasium;
-Additional change rooms; and,
-All activity and support spaces should be fully accessible.

@darrenmacd