The Aquatic Centre will serve residents of Inverness county and beyond. At this facility, children can learn to swim, people can access low-impact physical therapy, people of all ages and abilities can exercise year-round, and recreation programs will fill a void for residents in our area.

The site has yet to be determined. To provide suitable access to those furthest from existing facilities, the Margarees would be a central location. Do you know of land that is at least 5 acres in size, has a good water source and is on or near a main road? Please let us know.

Energy-neutral means that the energy demand of the building is met with energy generated on the property, prioritizing sustainable sources. In the case of the aquatic centre, utilizing energy efficient mechanical systems or natural sunlight (e.g. windows, solar panels) could be possibilities to reduce the carbon footprint and fulfill the energy-neutral goal. Over time, this can be beneficial financially and of course, environmentally.

Typically, a major public project will take five years or more from the feasibility phase to the opening of the facility. Your enthusiasm and input is needed to make this facility a top priority of residents, the municipality and all levels of government. Ask questions, get involved and show that an aquatic centre is what our communities need now!

The federal and provincial governments have said that they will cover the majority of the costs to build the aquatic centre. The operating costs will be significantly reduced because there will be zero energy costs, and state-of-the-art equipment and materials. The rest of the costs will be covered by user fees, program and advertising revenue, rental income, and ancillary services and funding.