User group concerned about impending pool closure

“You get marks based on moving through the pool and using the space,” said Schlamp. “So if we’re practicing in a space that’s maybe a quarter of the size an actual deep tank that we swim our competitions at, it puts our athletes at an incredibly unfair disadvantage.”

She said the club is considering renting pool space in Saskatoon or North Battleford, but also holding out hope the city will find a way to keep Marion Aquatics open, at least until the new recreation complex opens. The city hopes to cut the ribbon on that facility in the fall of 2023.

“We just really need to find a solution because we certainly don’t want this to be the end of the Pikes,” she said.

Schlamp also emphasized the club’s gratitude to the Sisters of the Presentation of Mary for the 44 years they operated the well-loved facility.

Sister Lise Paquette says the Sisters hope a new potential buyer of the former Rivier School will continue to use the facility to serve the city.

Future of the facility

Sister Lise Paquette, Sisters of the Presentation of Mary Provincial Superior, told paNOW while the Sisters have decided it was time for them to step back from operating the facility, the group is hopeful someone else can take it over.

The entire five-story former Blessed Marie Rivier School complex is listed for sale. Paquette said there are a few interested potential buyers, including the Conseil des Ecole Fransaskoises who want to turn it into a new francophone school.

“The operation, we hope, will go to a buyer who can continue this for the city,” said Paquette, noting that the Sisters will continue to serve Prince Albert and area in other ways.

Asked if Marion Aquatics could stay open past June 30, if the city or the community came forward with more funding, Paquette said if the city or a developer were willing to take over running the aquatic centre, the sisters would consider the proposal, but that entity “would have to cover the complete cost.”

–

alison.sandstrom@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @alisandstrom

by Alison Sandstrom

User group concerned about impending pool closure

What's Trending