The Inglewood Aquatic Center is closing permanently

After years of struggling with maintenance costs, the City of Calgary is closing one of its swimming facilities.

The Inglewood Aquatic Center will close on Dec. 22, 2024, officials said Wednesday.

“We are grateful to have been able to serve Calgarians at this facility for more than 60 years. From swim lessons to birthday parties to events, we are proud to support memorable experiences and make a positive impact on the well-being of our community,” said Heather Johnson. , the city's recreation and social programs director.

The facility at 1527 17th Ave. SE reduced its hours last June to three days a week.

The Inglewood Aquatic Center is one of more than a dozen city facilities in need of major electrical repairs, officials said Thursday.

The cost to renovate the Inglewood pool is at least $600,000 and will take three months to complete.

“Additionally, due to the age of the facility, additional repairs may be required,” Johnson said.

The facility has exceeded its expected lifespan by 20 years, he added.

According to the city's website, the center has a six-lane, 25-meter pool ranging from one to three meters in depth, and a water climbing wall.

There was also a dry sauna and a multi-purpose room.

In 2021, the City Council approved a $200,000 grant to help keep the 50-year-old pool open.

During the debate at the time, the council discussed the efficiency of the building, its age, whether it could be saved and whether it would still be profitable.

The City of Calgary also gave Beltline Pool $200,000, allowing the facility to plan another way by removing its pool and replacing it with a new gym.

The final decision to close the Inglewood Aquatic Center in 2021 came after council approved an expansion of the MNP Community and Sports Center.

The $57 million expansion project at MNP is expected to begin this summer and is expected to be completed in 2027.