Burnaby Lake Recreation Complex
About this project
The Burnaby Lake Recreation Complex (BLRC) aims to serve as a recreational and competitive sports hub, while also being inclusive and meeting diverse recreation needs of residents and visitors.
The project began in 2019 with a study to replace its aging Burnaby Lake Arena and C.G. Brown Pool. In August 2023, the original design was abandoned following a cost analysis. Council authorized staff to transition to a Design-Build approach to expedite the redesign process.
On December 11, 2023, Council approved a new design concept that meets all identified recreation needs and complies with provincial requirements to host swimming championships. Key features include:
- 50 metre pool with 10 lanes
- diving tower and boards
- combined leisure and 6-lane 25metre pool
- NHL sized arena (ice/dry floor)
- combined surface and underground parking
- at grade covered pedestrian crossing across Kensington Avenue to connect to the Christine Sinclair Community Centre
- space allocation for a future outdoor pool (covered or partially covered) if required
In addition, the complex offers various other amenities:
- Multi-use pathways accommodate various modes of transportation such as walking, cycling and rolling.
- Multi-purpose rooms cater to diverse needs and universal washrooms ensure inclusivity for all visitors.
- Administrative offices will efficiently manage facility operations and storage facilities will support equipment and supplies.
- The Burnaby Sports Hall of Fame will pay tribute to local sports achievements.
- Public art installations will enhance the overall aesthetic and cultural value.
Project updates
Heavy machinery for the demolition of the Burnaby Lake Arena will be on site until late November 2024. Site excavation will follow shortly after and is expected to continue through to the spring of 2025. The Design-Build delivery model allows to expedite construction activities, such as demolition and excavation, while the building’s design details are being finalized.
Please note that parking changes will remain in effect until spring 2025. Stay tuned for more updates. View the map for more details.
Questions and answers
Staff are working hard to reduce the impact of the construction of our new facility on your activities and programs at the BCSC. We are identifying the potential impacts and finding solutions with the input and collaboration of our user groups. This includes hoarding around the construction site for your safety. We will keep you informed of the progress and updates of the project.
The City of Burnaby allocation policy will be followed in determining the allocation/program of space within the new facility. More information will be available as we get closer to opening.
The City aims to ensure that you can continue using the nearby buildings while we work on this project. We are working with our contractor, Ventana Construction Corp. to plan the best approach for construction that minimizes inconvenience for user groups and the public.
The new rink is being planned as an NHL standard rink on the level of the Bill Copeland Sports Centre , and we’ll have comfortable spectator seating.
There will be a 50m pool with two bulkheads and a movable floor, a combined leisure and lane pool with water toys, lazy river and swimming lanes. In addition, there will be a family hot tub, sauna and steam room.