Colwood residents have until June 4, 2026 to share their thoughts on a draft plan that could shape the future of recreation in the Westshore. The West Shore Parks & Recreation Society released its 10-year Facilities Master Plan on May 21, and it points to a clear need for more pools, ice rinks and gym space to keep up with a growing population.
The plan shows that program registrations have jumped 31 percent since 2022, and aquatics and skating programs are oversubscribed by up to 78 percent. The top recommendation is to work toward a new indoor recreation complex that would include an aquatics centre, twin ice sheets, a multipurpose court or fieldhouse, and a fitness centre.
The Juan de Fuca Recreation Centre in Colwood serves as the main hub for the area and is feeling the strain. The Westshore is expected to add close to 39,000 new residents by 2046, which would push the population up 38 percent from today. Nine out of 10 community groups surveyed said they expect their membership to grow over the next five years, adding more pressure on already full facilities.
“We encourage residents to review the draft plan and share their thoughts,” the society said. About 70 percent of residents surveyed support some increase to property taxes if it helps meet recreation needs. The survey closes June 4.
