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Report To: General Government Committee
Date of Meeting: January 23, 2017
Report Number: CSD -001-17 Resolution: * *
File Number: By-law Number:
Report Subject: Indoor Facilities Development Strategy
Recommendations:
That Report CSD -001-17 be received;
2. That the Indoor Facilities Development Strategy be referred to staff as a reference in the
future development of the Municipality's indoor recreation facilities including
development charges background studies and future budget planning;
3. That staff report back regarding the development of the Phase I expansion project at the
Bowmanville Indoor Soccer location, as recommended in the Indoor Facilities
Development Strategy; and
4. That all interested parties listed in Report CSD -001-17 and any delegations be advised
of Council's decision.
Municipality of Clarington
Report CSD -0 -17
Report Overview
Page 2
The Community Services Department is presenting an Indoor Facilities Development
Strategy for recreation facility development within the Municipality. The Strategy outlines
future facility development to meet the leisure needs of our residents to the year 2031.
1. Background
Responding to our rate of growth, changes to the community's demographics profile,
emerging trends in the industry and to best meet the needs of our residents a
comprehensive facility development strategy is needed.
As a result, the Community Service Department engaged the services of Monteith Brown
Planning Consultants (MBPC) to prepare a long term strategy for the development of the
Municipality's future indoor recreation facilities.
The Strategy will provide both Council and staff with a reference to advance an indoor
recreation facility development program, to respond to public requests for future
recreation facilities and to provide a guide in determining facility components.
2. Strategy Scope
The scope of the Strategy considers residential growth from the present to the year 2031.
Growth projections will see Clarington's population increase from 95,300 to an estimated
140,300 over the study period.
Research includes a review of facility trends on a local, regional provincial and national
level providing insight applicable to Clarington.
The Strategy also considers our existing inventory of facilities, recognizing the age,
expansion potential and required upgrades at each of our existing sites.
3. Consultations
During the development of this Strategy there was consultation with Members of Council,
staff, key stakeholders and the general public. Public Information Centres were hosted in
Courtice, Bowmanville, Newcastle and Orono. Generally there was good public
engagement and the information gathered provided MBPC indications of what the future
needs of the community are. This was a key component in the formulation of the
Strategy.
At the January 12, 2015 Council meeting, a resolution was passed referring a petition for
an indoor walking facility in Newcastle to the Department to take into consideration during
the Indoor Facilities Development Strategy process. The organizers of the petition were
contacted and encouraged to take part in the public consultation process. The needs of
this group were made known and consideration of the request has been identified in the
Strategy recommendations. The organizers of the petition will be advised of the action
taken.
Municipality of Clarington
Resort CSD -0 -17
4. Financial Considerations
Paae 3
Capital project cost forecasts have been prepared for all of the recommendations
proposed in the study. These estimated costs would be used at the appropriate time to
help establish the budget for any projects that are brought forward for Council's
consideration. They will also be referenced during the preparation of future Development
Charges Background Studies.
High level operating budget implications have also been completed for all
recommendations. These outline the potential increase in revenues and expenditures for
each project. This information should be used as a guideline and a more detailed
operating budget review would be required for any projects brought forward for Council's
consideration.
5. Concurrence
Not Applicable
6. Conclusion
It is respectfully recommended that Council receive the various recommendations
brought forward in this Strategy; refer the Strategy to staff for consideration in advancing
the Municipality's indoor recreation facilities; and direct staff to report back on
development of the Phase I facility expansion at the Bowmanville Indoor Soccer location.
Although the report outlines timelines for each project, staff note that circumstances may
require the re -assessment of the timelines for these projects during the term of this
Strategy period.
7. Strategic Plan Application
The recommendations contained in this report conform to the Strategic Plan.
Submitted by: Reviewed by: f
Joseph . Caruana, Curry Clifford, MPA, CMO
Director of Community Services Interim CAO
Staff Contact: George Acorn, Facilities Manager, 905 623-3379 ext 2503 or
gacorn@clarington.net
Attachment 1: Indoor Facilities Development Strategy
The following is a list of the interested parties to be notified of Council's decision:
Marg Maskell
Blain Pickard
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Clarl"ligton
4fel tra, MJMA
M*nteith+]3r*wn TLICKER.REIDILASSOGIATES maclennan jaunka Ins miller architects
planning consultants
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Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
FINAL REPORT
January 13, 2017
Prepared for:
Municipality of Clarington
Community Services Department
Prepared by:
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Monteith�Brown With rucKeA-REID&-0CATEs
planning consultants
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maclennan launkalns miller architects
Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
Table of Contents
Section 1. Introduction
1
1.1 Purpose
1
1.2 Project Scope & Methodology
1
1.3 Aligning with Corporate Frameworks
2
Section 2. Research Inputs
3
2.1 Planning Context
3
2.2 Population Growth
3
2.3 Demographic Characteristics of the Population
5
2.4 General Indoor Recreation Facility Trends
8
Section 3. Public Engagement
11
3.1 Public Information Centres
12
3.2 Staff Workshop
13
3.3 Stakeholder Focus Group
14
3.4 Interviews with Mayor and Council
15
Section 4. Indoor Recreation Facility Needs 16
4.1
Summary of Indoor Recreation Facilities
16
4.2
Indoor Aquatics
21
4.3
Arenas
27
4.4
Indoor Artificial Turf Fields
34
4.5
Gymnasiums
37
4.6
Fitness Space
40
4.7
Multi -Purpose Spaces
44
4.8
Youth Spaces
46
4.9
Older Adult Space
49
4.10Other Indoor Recreation Facility Needs
51
Section 5. Implementation of Expansion & Redevelopment Options 52
5.1
Costing Assumptions
53
5.2
Expand Bowmanville Indoor Soccer Facility into a Multi -Use Community Centre
55
5.3
Expand the Newcastle & District Recreation Complex
59
5.4
Expand and Renovate the Courtice Community Complex
64
5.5
Expand the South Courtice Arena
67
5.6
Plan for a Future Indoor Aquatics Facility After 2031
69
5.7
Other Recommended Directions
69
5.8
Opportunities Associated with Future Community Parks
71
5.9
Capital Funding for the Facilities Strategy
71
Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
Section 1. Introduction
1.1 Purpose
The Municipality of Clarington's Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy (herein
referred to as the "Facilities Strategy") provides a framework to guide investments in new and/or
existing facilities to meet needs of residents to the year 2031. This Facilities Strategy has been
prepared in response to increasing population growth and socio-economic diversification within
the Municipality of Clarington, which in turn necessitates this assessment of the current indoor
recreation facility inventory and associated demands being placed on facility space.
The Facilities Strategy has been prepared in accordance with a Terms of Reference that articulates
several objectives including:
x Recommend future facility expansion options for existing recreation facility sites;
x Articulate the feasibility of developing new recreation facilities at identified future
Community Park sites;
x Analyze existing facility usage to establish a thorough understanding of the existing state
of recreation facilities;
x Identify potential partnership opportunities for facility provision;
x Assess capital and operating implications for recreation facility recommendations; and
x Formulate an implementation plan to prioritize short, medium, and long term
recommendations.
1.2 Project Scope & Methodology
The scope of this Facilities Strategy assesses new recreation facility development opportunities
throughout Clarington and expansion opportunities at the following indoor recreation facilities:
x Alan Strike Aquatic and Squash Centre (formerly the Clarington Fitness Centre)
x Bowmanville Indoor Soccer Facility
x Courtice Community Complex
x Darlington Sports Centre
x Garnet B. Rickard Recreation Complex
x Newcastle & District Recreation Complex
x South Courtice Arena
Under the Terms of Reference, municipal facilities that fall outside of the Facilities Strategy's scope
include the Municipality of Clarington's stand-alone community halls, arenas in Orono and
Newcastle that are operated by independent arena boards, and outdoor recreation facilities. As a
facility study, this Strategy does not delve into service delivery or policy -related assessments but
does consider the Municipality of Clarington's Community Services Department Strategic Master
Plan in this respect.
Monteith Brown Planning Consultants with TRA & MJMA I Page 1
Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
Figure 1 illustrates the three phases of the planning process. The first two phases centre upon
research, community engagement and needs assessments, all of which culminate into the Draft
and Final Facilities Strategy. Initial consultations with the community were completed during
September and October 2015 to collect input from residents, stakeholders, staff, and Council.
Figure 1: Planning Methodology
Phase 1:
Background Review
Project Initiation Public Engagement
Phase 2:
Develop Strategy
Facility Needs Assessments
Phase 3:
Finalization
Draft Facilities
Development Strategy
Presentation
to Council
Background Research, Inventory and Data Review Facility Development Implementation
Demographics, Trends Options Strategy
1.3 Aligning with Corporate Frameworks
FINAL
-reation Facilities
elopment Strategy
A number of corporate documents and policies affecting the provision of municipal indoor
recreation facilities have been reviewed so that this Facilities Strategy is consistent with other
municipal objectives guiding the planning and provision of community facilities. The following is
a non -exhaustive list of some of the key documents that have been considered in the preparation
of the Facilities Strategy.
Strategic Policy Documents
x Municipality of Clarington Strategic Plan (2015-2018)
x 2015 Municipality of Clarington Development Charges and Background Study
x Proposed 2015 Municipality of Clarington Official Plan (and supporting reports)
x Consolidated 2014 Municipality of Clarington Official Plan
x Comparison Guide for the Proposed Changes to the Official Plan
x Municipality of Clarington Community Services Strategic Plan
Supporting Documents and Policies
x 2013-2017 Accessibility Plan x Clarington Community Forecast — Population
x 2014 Accessibility Status Report and Employment Projections
x 2014 Growth Trends Review x Municipality of Clarington Customer Service
x Department Operating Budget Policy (CLD -023-09)
x Departmental Capital Budget x Parks, Open Space and Trails Discussion Paper
x Recreation & Leisure Guide x Schedule of Rates and Fees (CSD -007-15)
x Clarington Community Forecast Update x Various Staff Reports
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Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
Section 2. Research Inputs
This section highlights the inputs gathered through secondary research methods, including
background information on the Municipality and its socio -demographic profile. The Municipality's
community profile was based on a number of sources including the Durham Region Official Plan,
Municipality of Clarington Proposed 2015 Official Plan (and supporting studies), Development
Charges Background Study, Statistics Canada Census and National Household Survey (N.H.S.).'
2.1 Planning Context
The Municipality of Clarington is an urban -rural community with one of the largest land areas (611
square kilometres in land area) in the Greater Toronto Area and a rich heritage dating back over
125 years. The Municipality's land form is diverse with significant features encompassing the Lake
Ontario Waterfront, the Oak Ridges Moraine and farmland protected by the Ontario Greenbelt.
Its strategic location provides easy access to Provincial Highways 401 and 35/115, C.N. Rail and
C.P. Rail lines, as well as the future extension of Highway 407 and a future GO Train terminal.
As a 'community of communities', Clarington consists of three urban areas, one village, and
fourteen hamlets that are surrounded by scenic countryside. Bowmanville, Courtice, Newcastle
Village, and Orono contain the largest concentration of population.
2.2 Population Growth
Historical and future population growth is an important aspect of this Facilities Strategy. In 2011,
the Municipality's Census population was recorded at 84,548 persons, representing an average
annualized growth rate of 2.1% since 2001 Census period. The Municipality's 2015 population is
estimated at 95,300, which is used as the baseline for this Facilities Strategy.2
The Durham Region Official Plan allocates future population growth to its lower -tier
municipalities, through which Clarington will receive the second largest share of new population
only behind that of Pickering. By the end of the Facilities Strategy's planning period in 2031,
Clarington is projected to reach a population of 140,340 person S,3 representing an annual growth
rate above 3.5% with an additional 49,800 persons expected.
The N.H.S. is a voluntary survey undertaken for the first time in 2011. Clarington had a Global Non-
response Rate of 27.1%, which may affect data quality.
2 Monitoring of Growth Trends, File: D01-02-01. Commissioner's Report #2015-P-55. September 29, 2015.
Note that population figure is adjusted to reflect Census net undercount.
3 Hemson Consulting. Memorandum to the Municipality of Clarington Re: Clarington Community Forecast
Update 2013. January 25, 2013.
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Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
Figure 2: Historical and Projected Population Growth, 2001-2031
150,000
125,000
100,000
0
75 75,00080,900 7'980
0 72,600
a 50,000
25,000
0
140,400
i
i *123,900
X108,100
97,050
Historical Population
9- Projected Population
2001 2006 2011 2016 2021 2026 2031
Source: Statistics Canada Community Profiles; Hemson Consulting, Memorandum to the Municipality of
Clarington Re: Clarington Community Forecast Update 2013. January 25, 2013. Note: Includes undercount.
Understanding where population growth is expected to occur helps to inform future facility
planning decisions. Table 1 summarizes population growth by community area while the
paragraphs that follow articulate the demographic profile of each community based upon the
2013 Community Forecast Update.
Table 1: Forecasted Population Growth by Community, 2016-2031
Community
2016
2021
Bowmanville
40,500
42%
47,100
1 43%
64,200 46% 23,700 59%
Courtice
28,100
29%
31,300
29%
36,600 26% 8,500 30%
Newcastle
9,800
10%
12,200
11%
19,300 14% 9,500 97%
Rural
Total
18,700
97,100
19%
100%
19,100
109,800
17%
100%
20,300 14% 1,600 9%
140,400 100% 43,300 45%
Source: Hemson Consulting, Memorandum to the Municipality of Clarington Re: Clarington Community
Forecast Update 2013. January 25, 2013. Note: Includes Census undercount.
Bowmanville
Bowmanville is Clarington's largest settlement area with an estimated population of 40,500
persons. This community is expected to remain the largest settlement area with 64,200 persons
forecasted to live there by 2031, representing a 3.9% annual rate of growth. The greatest
proportional increases among age groups are associated with the 20 to 34 and 70+ age groups
(102% and 94%, respectively). The other age cohorts are also expected to undergo varying levels
of growth between 30% and 68%.
Courtice
Courtice is Clarington's second largest settlement area with an estimated population of 28,100.
Courtice is projected to grow by another 8,500 persons by 2031 to reach a population of 36,600
(an average of 2% growth per year). The 55+ age group is expected to increase by 71% over this
time while the 0 to 9 cohort is anticipated to rise by 68%. Mature and young adults are expected
to increase by 15% and 23%, respectively, while youth (ages 10-19) are projected to decline by
14% (i.e. 500 fewer youth).
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Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
Newcastle
Newcastle is poised to double its current population to reach 19,300 persons by the year 2031,
adding 9,500 new residents in total. This equates to an average annual growth rate of 6.7%,
meaning that Newcastle will experience the greatest proportional rate of growth within Clarington
over the next fifteen years. Much of this growth is expected to be made up of young families.
Young adults are expected to make up most of the population increase, growing by nearly two
times during the planning period. The population of children is also expected to double, while the
number of youths is projected to increase by one half. Mature adults and seniors are forecasted
to grow by 93% and 47%, respectively, while the number of older adults is anticipated to remain
unchanged.
Rural
Clarington's rural areas include settlement areas (comprised of Orono, Newtonville, Enniskillen,
etc.) collectively have a population of 18,700. In contrast to the urban communities, growth in the
rural areas amounts to just 1,600 persons representing an annualized growth rate of 0.6%. Growth
in rural communities is constrained by lack of servicing infrastructure and legislative restrictions
of the Oak Ridges Moraine, Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe, and the Ontario
Greenbelt.
The demographic growth profile of Clarington's rural communities is contrast to its urban
settlement areas given that it is forecasted to add 2,230 persons, representing a growth of 12%.
The lower level of growth is attributed to declining population among youth, young adults, and
older adult cohorts. A majority of the population growth is contributed by seniors and children,
which are expected to increase by 77% and 78%, respectively. The population of adults is
forecasted to remain unchanged.
2.3 Demographic Characteristics of the Population
Age Profile
Understanding the historical and forecasted evolution of age cohorts within the community is
crucial in orderto ensure that the Municipality's indoor recreation facilities respond to Clarington's
demographic fabric. Statistics Canada recorded Clarington's median age at 38.6 years in 2011,
which is younger compared to Durham Region (39.2 years) and the Province (40.4 years). Since
the 2006 Census, Clarington's median age increased by two years, suggesting that the
Municipality's population is aging as a whole. A review of trends in Clarington's age cohorts
between 2006 and 2011 Census periods reveals additional evidence of an aging demographic
profile as the number of persons 19 years and under remained the same, while the number of
older adults over the age of 55 increased by 26%. This aging of the population is consistent with
trends observed across Canada and is expected to continue over the planning period, driven in
part by the aging Baby Boom generation.
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Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
Figure 3: Projected Population Growth by Age Cohort, 2016 - 2031
Young Mature Older
a, Children Youth Adult Adult Adult Senior
1310-9 10-19 20-34 35-54 55-69 70+
ca
■ 80% 11% *67 8 m22% 91%
Year
2016
2031
Difference
Children
10,280
18,530
8,250
Youth
13,440
14,890
1,450
Young Adult
20,230
33,800
13,570
Mature Adult
25,750
33,010
7,260
Older Adult
15,390
18,850
3,460
Senior 8,430
Totali
16,130
135,210
7,700
41,690
Source: Hemson Consulting, Memorandum to the Municipality of Clarington Re: Clarington
Community Forecast Update 2013. January 25, 2013. Age cohort facts exclude net Census undercount.
Looking towards 2031, the greatest proportional growth is attributable to the 70+ and under 10
age groups. The growth in the older age group reflects the Municipality's aging trend while the
growth in children reflects ongoing residential land developments that will be attractive to young
families. In fact, populations within all major age groups are expected to increase in number
placing increasing demands on indoor recreation facilities.
Household Income
The level of participation in recreation activities is often tied to household income, with
participation rates rising with level of income. The N.H.S. reported that Clarington's 2010 median
household income of $83,439 was higher compared to the Region ($81,119) and the Province
($66,358). Based solely on income, the Municipality is more likely to be physically active although
it is recognized that there are a variety of income levels represented across Clarington.
The N.H.S. records approximately 8% of the Municipality's population as low income. While this
proportion is lower compared to the Region (10%) and the Province (14%), the Municipality has
made strides in removing financial barriers to participating in indoor recreation activities. There
are a number of financial assistance grants including the Financial Assistance Program that
provides up to 50% discount on programs or memberships for individuals or families registered
with Ontario Works or Ontario Disability Support Program. The Clarington Membership Access
Program also provides fitness memberships for persons with disabilities. Financial assistance is
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Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
also available through other agencies (e.g. Durham Region Social Services) and non-profit/private
sector partners (e.g. Canadian Tire Jumpstart).
Cultural Diversity
Many cultures view recreation activities as family-oriented experiences and are inclined to pursue
such activities together. The N.H.S. reported that approximately 11% of the Municipality's
population are immigrants, the majority of whom arrived before 1980 and thus likely well
established in Canadian culture. The N.H.S. reported that 6% of residents are visible minorities and
7% of the population speak a non -official language. This suggests that the influx of newcomers
observed elsewhere in the G.T.A. has not yet been experienced to the same degree in Clarington.
However, immigration trends suggests that the proportion of visible minorities in the Municipality
will grow over time, potentially resulting in a need to evolve Clarington's portfolio of indoor
recreation facilities to maximize participation and encourage community health among all groups.
As communities across the province become more diverse, there is a need to ensure that
opportunities are provided for immigrant and diverse cultural groups and that participation
barriers are moved. Research has shown that persons with diverse cultural backgrounds are less
likely to participate due to a number of factors such as lack of skill or knowledge, cultural or
religious beliefs or traditions, income barriers, isolation, fear of discrimination, and community
segregation. Recent immigrants are also less likely to participate in recreation activities due to
higher priorities related to employment and financial stability.
A number of communities that are becoming more diverse have explored strategies to remove
cultural barriers to participation through ongoing targeted consultation with cultural groups to
understand specific challenges to participation, how to overcome these barriers, and what
recreational opportunities and services they would like to see offered. Some of the strategies that
municipalities have implemented to engage cultural groups include equipment rentals (e.g., ice
skates), offering female only swims, promoting the use of municipal multi-purpose spaces for
cultural gatherings, and publishing literature in multiple languages.
Persons with Disabilities
The Canadian Survey on Disability reported that approximately 3.8 million Canadians were living
with a disability in 2012, representing 14% of Canadians and 15% of Ontarians. While the number
of persons with disabilities in Clarington is not presently quantified, applying this provincial
disability rate to Clarington's population suggests that there could be more than 12,000 local
residents living with some form of disability. Given these statistics, it is essential that planning
associated with the provision of indoor recreation facilities is inclusive of all residents, regardless
of their ability.
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Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
2.4 General Indoor Recreation Facility Trends
Establishing an understanding of existing and emerging indoor recreation facility trends is
essential as they may impact local indoor recreation facility needs. A broad range of national,
provincial, and regional trends have been observed and are discussed in the following sections,
together with its implications on the provision of indoor recreation facility needs in Clarington. A
summary of related trends is illustrated in Figure 4.
Figure 4: Summary of Recreation Trends
Dim
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m
n.�
CD o
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Participation and Physical Activity
Research shows increasing rates of physical inactivity in Canada. A lack of free time, largely due
to busier lifestyles and a number of socio-economic circumstances (such as low income or lone -
parent households) have traditionally been the primary barriers to participation for youth and
adults. Heavier workloads, competing free -time interests and prevalence of sedentary activities
(e.g. from personal electronic devices) have also resulted in less time for physical activity and a
greater desire for more flexible and convenient program options.
Increasingly busy lifestyles have altered the leisure habits of many individuals and prompted a
general transition from organized to unorganized recreation. Those who experience this "time
crunch" are increasingly looking for spontaneous, non -programmed forms of activity that fit into
their schedule. This trend has influenced the design of indoor recreation facilities to be more
flexible in accommodating both programmable and non -programmable space. It has also
contributed to a desire to provide, where possible, both indoor and outdoor recreation facilities
in proximity to one another.
The Canadian Fitness & Lifestyle Research Institute notes a declining trend of active participation.
In 2012, the Institute reported that 34% of Canadians participated in sports, which is a lower rate
compared to previous years. While participation in organized activities (such as minor sports) is
still strong in certain categories such as soccer and girls hockey, the 2005 Sport Participation in
Canada study observed a noticeable decline in other organized activities, such as baseball, as
interests change or people try to find activities that fit within their busy schedules.
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Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
Locally, the Municipality has responded to the need for more informal program opportunities
such as offering drop-in aquafit, group fitness, and sports such as gymnasium -based activities
(e.g. basketball, badminton, etc.) and indoor soccer.
Aging Infrastructure
In 2006, Parks and Recreation Ontario estimated that between 30% and 50% of recreation facilities
were nearing the end of their useful lifecycle. Many recreation facilities were built between 1956
and 1980, with a number of them constructed to celebrate Canada's Centennial year in 1967. Since
this period, infrastructure province -wide has been underfunded though these pressures have
been somewhat alleviated through recent provincial and federal economic stimulus programs.
The Municipality was fortunate to receive nearly $1 million in federal and provincial funding from
the Recreation Infrastructure Canada program towards improvements at the Garnet B. Rickard
Recreation Complex ($495,000), Newcastle Memorial Arena ($392,395), and arena floor
replacement at the Darlington Sports Centre ($396,000). Most recently, the Municipality secured
$455,000 through the Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Fund to cover half the cost of a
renovation of the Garnet B. Rickard Recreation Complex's banquet hall (which will include an
expansion of the kitchen facilities, upgrades to the hall, bar, and washrooms, and accessible
improvements throughout the facility including an accessible washroom and front entrance).
Facility Provision Models
Municipal community centres facilitate more than just recreation activities and programs. Many
of these facilities are community destinations or hubs of activity where residents from diverse age
groups, interests and abilities can access a program, activity, workshop, sport, etc. Today's facility
users are more sophisticated than ever before while new residents to Clarington often bring with
them expectations for quality and service comparable to their previous communities, the result
being greater demands on the Municipality to provide high quality, modern recreation facilities.
Municipalities have been exploring the development of multi -use community facility templates
for a number of years, which have yielded numerous benefits compared to traditional stand-alone
community facilities. The co -location of complementary indoor and/or outdoor facility
components can enhance operational efficiencies and economies of scale, as well as create
convenient and centralized activity hubs offering a 'one-stop' destination for all members of a
household so that they do not have to travel to multiple facilities. Facilities are also being designed
for comfort, particularly in lobbies and other common areas, to accommodate persons not directly
participating in activities and facilitating opportunities for social interaction.
Locally, there are several examples of stand-alone and multi -use community facilities across the
Municipality. Clarington has embraced the multi -use facility design to focus on enhanced
recreation experiences for local residents and regional visitors, evidenced by the construction of
the Newcastle & District Recreation Complex that offers an indoor aquatic centre, gymnasium,
multi-purpose rooms, children's room, and spaces that facilitate social interaction.
Physical Accessibility
Municipalities across Ontario have embraced principles of inclusivity through facility design and
service delivery. This practice is guided by the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act
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Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
(A.O.D.A.), 2005, which requires municipalities to remove all barriers within municipal facilities by
2025. In doing so, municipalities are required to form Accessibility Committees and adopt
accessibility plans, which identify, develop, and prioritize solutions to remove barriers from
municipal facilities. Moreover, amendments were recently made to the Ontario Building Code
through Ontario Regulation 336/13 to enhance accessibility in buildings. A number of new
standards and requirements were added to support barrier -free design within new construction
and buildings requiring extensive renovations, including barrier -free washrooms, pool areas,
visual fire safety devices, and more.
Guided by the 2013-2017 Multi -Year Accessibility Plan, the Municipality has been diligent in
removing barriers at all levels to remain inclusive of all residents. Clarington's most recent
achievements are highlighted in the 2014 Status Update, which primarily centred on removing
barriers to employment, information and communications, and general staff training. Ensuring
that these areas are accessible continued during 2015 in addition providing opportunities to
engage persons with disabilities in the design of public spaces. For example, the recently
renovated Alan Strike Aquatic and Squash Centre boasts a number of accessible features such as
an elevator, accessible pool lift, viewing areas, and accessible washrooms. The Municipality's
capital budget also identifies a number of future retrofit projects at the Newcastle & District
Recreation Complex and Courtice Community Complex including aquatic wheelchairs and
accessible transfer lifts. As previously described, accessible washrooms are also being added to
the Garnet B. Rickard Recreation Complex after receiving funding from Canada 150.
Environmentally Friendly Facility Design
Environmental concerns are a top of mind issue among many Canadians as there is an increasing
need to maximize the efficient use of resources. Many municipalities have demonstrated
environmentally conscious awareness in the design of new facilities that utilize state-of-the-art
technologies to enhance environmental efficiency. The design of environmentally friendly facilities
is promoted by the Canadian Green Building Council, which governs the Leadership in Energy and
Environmental Design (LEED) rating system in Canada. To obtain LEED certification, a facility must
meet rating standards in sustainable development, water savings, energy efficiency, materials, and
indoor environmental quality. BOMA BESt is another sustainability certification program that is a
voluntary, national program designed to assess environmental performance and management of
existing (primarily commercial) buildings.
While the Municipality does not currently have any LEED certified recreation facilities, it has been
active in ensuring that the LEED principles are incorporated into the design and construction (or
renovation) of municipal facilities. The Municipality's Energy Management Plan also provides
guidance to improve energy efficiency with its facilities. Most recently, renovations to the Alan
Strike Aquatic and Squash Centre (formerly known as the Clarington Fitness Centre) was
completed in September 2015 that included energy and environmental efficiency features
including designs that maximize natural lighting throughout the facility, LED lighting retrofits, and
upgrades to several mechanical and electrical components to high efficiency systems.
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Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
Section 3. Public Engagement
A comprehensive public engagement strategy was developed outlining the consultation sessions
to be undertaken for the Facilities Strategy. Each technique was strategically designed to maximize
community involvement and tailored to seek feedback from a variety of audiences. Considerable
input was received that helped to establish an understanding of perceived indoor recreation
facility needs, opinions, and priorities of the public and stakeholders. Input from consultations,
together with input from the Project Team, was considered in a manner so that the Facilities
Strategy is responsive to community needs and is consistent with the Municipality's strategic
directives.
Public Engagement tasks undertaken for this Facilities Strategy are highlighted below:
x Public Information Centres — September and October 2015
x Staff Workshop — September 29, 2015
x Interviews with Mayor and Council — October and November 2015
x Stakeholder Focus Group — October 13, 2015
The following summarizes the most common themes that were heard throughout the consultation
process. These themes, together with the other comments received throughout the process, will
be used to inform the second phase of the project.
x The Municipality's indoor aquatic centres were among the most popular indoor recreation
facilities in Clarington.
x Indoor recreation facilities where people can spontaneously drop-in and participate in
non -structured activities were commonly requested such as indoor aquatic centres, fitness
centres, indoor walking tracks, gymnasiums, hard surface courts, and more.
x Residents desired multi -use indoor recreation facilities where families can be active
together under one roof.
x Some of Clarington's indoor recreation facilities are aging and in need of updating to
respond to evolving recreation facility needs (e.g., appropriately -sized facilities) or to offer
modern amenities (e.g., with sufficient parking, spectator seating, lighting, storage, etc.).
x There is a need for upgraded (and additional) arenas in Clarington to support growing
demand.
x Indoor recreation facilities that support field sports and winter training were desired,
particularly for baseball and lacrosse.
x Ensuring that indoor recreation facilities are physically accessible (e.g., accessible viewing
areas) should be a priority.
x Municipal staff are friendly, helpful, and are greatly appreciated.
Of note, input from the public engagement phase should not be construed as recommendations
nor has the public input been altered even in instances where comments may incorrectly reflect
the Municipality's actual policies, practices, or level of provision.
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Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
3.1 Public Information Centres
Public Information Centres (P.I.C.$) were held in Courtice, Bowmanville, Orono, and Newcastle in
September to ensure that residents have convenient and accessible locations. These four P.I.C.s
were led by the Consultants to introduce the project to the public and to provide an opportunity
for residents to provide their input for the Strategy. Following these P.I.C.s, a number of pop-up
sessions were run by municipal Staff at community facilities in October to provide additional input
opportunities for residents who were unable to participate at the initial P.I.C.s.
Each P.I.C. was facilitated as an informal event to allow residents to drop-in at their convenience,
review background information presented on the display boards, and provide their comments.
Participants at each P.I.C. were asked to respond to three broad questions pertaining to what they
like most about indoor recreation facilities in Clarington, how the Municipality can improve
existing indoor recreation facilities, and what indoor recreation facilities are missing in Clarington.
This section summarizes the comments collectively received from all P.I.C.s.
Indoor Recreation Facility Values
A general consensus was found when participants were asked to identify what aspects they
like most about Clarington's indoor recreation facilities. Many residents stated that the
municipal staff are the most important part of Clarington's indoor recreation facility system,
noting that they are friendly, helpful, and greatly appreciated in delivering high quality
services. A number of people indicated that municipal indoor recreation facilities are clean,
comfortable, and convenient. The variety of programming for a broad range of age groups
and interests was also mentioned.
Improved and Desired Indoor Recreation Facilities
Participants were asked to identify what types of indoor recreation facilities are missing or
needed at existing locations. A broad range of facility components were identified such as
larger gymnasiums, equipment -based fitness centres with supporting studio rooms and
walking tracks, indoor aquatic centres, arenas, and gymnasiums. Some participants also
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Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
desired indoor sports fields to support growing participation in field sports and the demand
for off-season training. A variety of programming needs were also suggested.
In addition to these facility requests, participants felt that there is a need to undertake
renovations and improvements to existing facilities in order to update and modernize
Clarington's aging facilities. Specific mentions included improving viewing areas, lighting, and
parking, in addition to the need to ensure that public areas are physically accessible and
barrier -free to accommodate persons with disabilities.
Participants also suggested that future indoor recreation facilities should be designed as
multi -use facilities to ensure that there are a variety of opportunities at one location that
appeal to all family members. It was identified that facility components should also be flexible
to accommodate multiple activities in order to maximize their use. Comments were also made
to include cultural opportunities within existing or future indoor recreation facilities to capture
a more holistic view of community leisure, such as integrating of library or arts spaces.
Following the presentation of the Facilities Strategy to Council, Community Services staff will share
the report with the public and keep them informed as the facility development program
progresses.
3.2 Staff Workshop
To ensure that Municipal staff are engaged in the preparation of the Strategy, a roundtable
discussion with Municipal staff was held on September 29, 2015 to solicit the opinions and
perspectives of participants. The workshop gathered staff input regarding community needs,
priorities, challenges, and opportunities with respect to the provision of indoor recreation facilities.
Participants included Community Services Department managers, coordinators, and frontline staff
who play a vital role in the provision of indoor recreation facilities.
Indoor Recreation Facility Strengths
Municipal staff expressed that there is a strong distribution of indoor recreation facilities. This is
particularly crucial given Clarington's large geographic area and dispersed urban settlements.
Municipal staff are also proud of the ability to maintain Clarington's indoor recreation facilities to
a high standard and to maximize facility use, particularly during prime time hours.
Indoor Recreation Facility Challenges
A number of challenges were identified with respect to indoor recreation facilities, including the
ability to provide adequate facility space to accommodate Clarington's growing population. Staff
indicated that storage was a challenge, particularly given that some spaces serve multiple
purposes that require a range of supplies and equipment. Consistent and reliable access to
facilities offered by community partners has also been an issue, such as school and community
halls. In order to accommodate some of this demand, it was suggested that underutilized
community facilities could be repurposed; however, staff have indicated that this may also be a
challenge to identify the appropriate facilities and gain public support for specific facility needs.
Other challenges expressed by staff include underutilized non -prime time hours, competition
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Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
from neighbouring municipalities, and facility spaces that are not appropriate for user needs (for
the latter, it is noted that recent conversion of the Courtice Community Complex banquet hall and
pending renovations at the Garnet Rickard Complex will both provide more appropriate
programming space).
Indoor Recreation Facility Opportunities
Municipal staff suggested several opportunities to improve existing indoor recreation facilities to
meet the needs of current and future Clarington residents. Ideas included expanding facility
amenities to provide larger dressing rooms and storage space, providing meeting areas to gather
and socialize such as viewing areas and lobby spaces, and repurposing underutilized spaces to
more in demand facilities that respond to leisure trends, among other suggestions.
3.3 Stakeholder Focus Group
In October 2015, a Focus Group was held to engage key stakeholders and obtain specific insights
into facility demand/needs, facility pressures, and the current state of Clarington's indoor
recreation facilities. This session provided an opportunity for organizations to network with each
other through which the expression of creative ideas was encouraged. A total of nine
representatives attended the focus groups.
Strengths of Clarington's Indoor Recreation Facilities
When participants were asked to describe the strengths of Clarington's indoor recreation
facilities, it was clear that there are many positives aspects of the Municipality's facilities. The
ability for Clarington's indoor recreation facilities to serve as community hubs was raised,
particularly when both indoor and outdoor recreation facilities co -located in one spot. The
strength of the community's spirit and support was also expressed, as many of the events are
well attended by spectators. Participants also felt that Clarington's facilities have good viewing
and spectator areas, with specific reference to the Municipality's indoor aquatic facilities.
Clarington's multi-purpose spaces have also been beneficial to facility users, as well as the
dryland training space that is available. The presence of private sector amenities within
municipal facilities, such as the Pro Shop, was also a strength to the indoor recreation facilities.
Perceived Challenges of Clarington's Indoor Recreation Facilities
When participants were asked to identify challenges associated with Clarington's existing
supply of indoor recreation facilities, some felt that there was a lack of available pool and
arena rental opportunities during prime time hours. The need to update existing indoor
recreation facilities was also expressed as participants felt there were many inadequacies such
as the lack of dressing rooms for accommodating male and female participants,
simultaneously, lack of referee room and storage space, and limited dryland training space.
With respect to indoor aquatics, participants felt that there is a lack of deck space and
appropriate starter blocks. Generally speaking, attendees felt that keeping up with indoor
recreation facility demands will be an on-going challenge as the Municipality continues to
g row.
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Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
Expanding Clarington's Offering of Indoor Recreation Facilities
Participants were asked what new indoor recreation facilities or additions to existing facilities
are needed to meet current and future facility needs. Participants suggested that the
Municipality should consider repurposing older facilities to better meet needs. Specific
requests were made for additional ice pads as participants indicated that residents are
currently participating outside of the Municipality to meet their needs. There was also a
general need for indoor recreation space to accommodate the increasing number of children
and youth seeking activities such as hockey, soccer, and basketball.
Top Priorities
When participants were asked to identify the top priorities for Clarington's indoor recreation
facilities, a fitness facility was a top of mind space — similar to the fitness facility found at the
Courtice Community Complex. Participants felt that there is a need for youth fitness
opportunities including cross -fit training, studio space, and equipment -based opportunities.
Other priorities to consider is a rock climbing wall and incorporating facility amenities such as
wireless internet.
Following the presentation of the facilities strategy to Council, Community Services staff will share
the report with stakeholders and keep them apprised as the facility development program
progresses.
3.4 Interviews with Mayor and Council
One-on-one interviews with the Mayor and members of Council obtained their input, priorities,
direction, and vision for the Strategy. Council members were encouraged to bring forward ideas
and to identify "hot button" issues raised by their constituents. Due to the confidential nature of
these interviews, statements attributable to specific Councillors will not be reproduced; however,
the findings and suggestions emerging from all discussions are considered in the context of this
Facilities Strategy, where appropriate.
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Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
Section 4. Indoor Recreation Facility Needs
This section explores the need for indoor recreation facilities falling under the purview of this
Strategy. Indoor recreation facility needs are evaluated in conjunction with market trends, public
input, and utilization data provided by Municipal staff. Facility benchmarking has been undertaken
to evaluate how the Municipality's service levels compare with other communities in southern
Durham Region including Ajax, Oshawa, Pickering, and Whitby.
4.1 Summary of Indoor Recreation Facilities
Alan Strike Aquatic and Squash Centre
The Alan Strike Aquatic and Squash
Centre, formerly known as the Clarington
Fitness Centre, opened in 1982 and
recently underwent a major renovation
and expansion that was completed in
September 2015. The facility is connected
to a secondary school operated by the
Kawartha Pine Ridge District School
Board. Recent facility improvements
include enhancements to the facade,
viewing areas, main entrance and lobby,
pool area, energy efficient mechanical
and electrical equipment, and the
building's accessibility (such as an
elevator and washroom). Renovated areas
also maximize the amount of natural light
entering the facility.
Now with a total size of 1,268 square metres, the facility is centred around a 25 metre, six lane
rectangular pool and two international squash courts that are complemented by change rooms,
whirlpool, sauna, program and meeting space, and administrative areas. Based on observations
and site visits, the building footprint is built out to its boundaries and unlikely to accommodate
further expansion.
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Bowmanville Indoor Soccer Facility
The Bowmanville Indoor Soccer Facility
was built in 2005 and is approximately
3,592 square metres in size. Its indoor
sports field (180' x 80') can be partitioned
into two smaller fields and is supported
by four change rooms, a referee room
(presently being utilized for storage), and
a meeting room. The perimeter of the
soccer field is used as an indoor walking
loop.
Outdoor recreation facilities co -located
onsite include a lacrosse bowl, ball
diamonds, and soccer and football fields.
Site visits suggest there is potential to
accommodate future indoor recreation
expansion, most likely to the north of the
existing building footprint.
Courtice Community Complex
Constructed in 1997, the 4,366 square
metre Courtice Community Complex
contains an indoor aquatics centre with
two pool tanks (a 25 metre, 6 lane pool, a
separate teaching pool, and a whirlpool
and sauna). This facility underwent an
expansion in 2001 to include a full service
fitness centre, aerobics studio, and
change rooms. In 2015, the Clarington
Public Library renovated and expanded
the library branch space at this location.
The Municipality has recently renovated
the former banquet hall into dedicated
older adult program space while the
formerly leased space adjacent to the
fitness studio has been repurposed to
accommodate group fitness and
recreation programs.
Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
There appears to be some potential to expand the building footprint to the west over the existing
soccer field, if so required.
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Darlington Sports Centre
The Darlington Sports Centre is one of
the Municipality's oldest recreation
facilities, originally constructed in 1975. It
is a single pad arena (the rink is
undersized at 175'x 78') with four change
rooms and seating for up to 300
spectators, occupying 3,057 square
metres in total. The arena was
refurbished in 2011 with a new concrete
pad and related mechanical systems,
facade updates and accessibility retrofits.
This site does not appear conducive to
future building expansion due to a lack
of space adjacent to the existing building
and a lack of municipal servicing (water
and sewers).
Garnet B. Rickard Recreation Complex
The Garnet B. Rickard Recreation
Complex was constructed in 1988 and
expanded in 1998. It is a twin pad arena
with NHL regulation ice pads (200' x 85')
with six dressing rooms per side and
spectator seating for 1,000 and 325 on
Pads A and B, respectively. The 8,230
square metre facility is home to a Junior
C hockey club, Junior B and C lacrosse
clubs, and functions as an emergency
evacuation centre. Other facilities include
a banquet hall and two multi-purpose
spaces. Discussions with Municipal Staff
indicate that ice plant was replaced in
2011 and while Pad B is generally in good
condition, Pad A is beginning to show
signs of deterioration as it is also utilized for floor -based events and trade shows. The banquet
hall will soon be renovated and expanded with an updated kitchen and accessible washrooms.
Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
The site's current configuration restricts any major expansion of the building footprint unless the
ball diamonds were to be relocated.
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Newcastle & District Recreation Complex
Newcastle & District Recreation Complex
was constructed in 2008, with its 8,775
square metres of indoor recreation space
comprised of a 25 metre, 6 lane
rectangular pool, teaching pool,
whirlpool and sauna, full gymnasium,
four multi-purpose spaces, and a
children's activity room. Recent
improvements include replacing the
floor in the multi-purpose rooms to a
more suitable surface to better
accommodate fitness classes. The
building was designed in a manner that
would readily allow future expansion to
the west in order to provide additional
indoor recreation space if/when
required.
South Courtice Arena
The South Courtice Arena was
constructed in 2003. This 8,031 square
metre facility contains a twin pad arena
with an Olympic size rink (200' x 100')
with six dressing rooms, an NHL
regulation rink (200' x 85') with six
dressing rooms, a small half court
gymnasium, and program and meeting
space. The building was designed in a
manner that would readily allow future
expansion of indoor recreation space to
the east.
Figure 5 illustrates the geographic
distribution of existing indoor recreation
facilities that are considered in this
Facilities Strategy as well as the identification of arena board operated facilities in Orono and
Newcastle. A 5 kilometre radius illustrates service coverage of each facility, generally representing
a 10 minute drive.
Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
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Municipality of Claringtl
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strate
Figure 5: Distribution of Indoor Recreation Facilities
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illustrative purposes only but are not contained in the scope of this Strategy.
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Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
4.2 Indoor Aquatics
Supply
Indoor aquatic centres are located in the Bowmanville, Courtice and Newcastle settlement areas
resulting in a large proportion of Clarington's residents living within proximity to an indoor pool.
All three indoor aquatic centres contain a 25 metre, 6 lane pool with whirlpool and sauna areas.
The Courtice Community Complex and Newcastle & District Recreation Complex also have
separated teaching pools. The Alan Strike Aquatic & Squash Centre is designed to accommodate
competitive lane swimming (the Newcastle pool is also conducive to competitive swimming but
has a leisure component attached to it).
Planning Context
Swimming is an essential life skill, particularly in waterfront communities such as Clarington where
access to Lake Ontario is available at many points along the southerly limits of the Municipality,
magnifying the importance of water safety and swimming instruction. Clarington provides one
indoor aquatics centre per 31,767 residents and achieves the highest level of service in southern
Durham Region (average of one indoor aquatics centre per 48,865 residents).
Table 2: Benchmarked Municipal Indoor Aquatic Centres
Municipality
Population
No. of Indoor
Service Level
Aquatic Centres
Ajax
121,900
3
40,633
Pickering
95,800
2
47,900
Oshawa
160,900
4
40,225
Whitby
133,400
2
66,700
Average
128,000
:.
Clarington
95,300
3
31,767
Pools are highly valued among residents that participated in the community consultation process,
with particular references made to the high quality of the Newcastle & District Recreation
Complex. Some P.I.C. attendees also expressed a desire for a larger pool in Courtice although no
explanation was provided. Input received from aquatic user groups echoed themes from the P.I.C.s
with emphasis also placed on creating additional deck space and installing proper starting blocks
for swim club -based programs and competition training.
Time and again, research has found that swimming is one of the most popular leisure activities as
it can be pursued at all life stages (e.g. from infants to seniors) and by a range of abilities, resulting
in high demands. For example, growth in older adults and seniors are driving the demand for
warmer water and therapeutic pools, while at the other end of the spectrum, young families
generally desire smaller teaching pools suitable for infants and young children (often with
waterplay features being incorporated to add a 'fun' element). In particular, the pools in Courtice
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Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
and Newcastle have been designed with multiple tanks and are co -located with complementary
facilities such as fitness centres, group fitness studios, gymnasium, and multi-purpose space.
Utilization
A range of registered aquatic programs are available at each location including learn to swim,
aquatic fitness (aqua -fit), and private/semi-private lessons. Both registered and drop-in swimming
pursuits have been strong with key findings between 2010 and 2015 including:
x Participation in registered programs increased by 85%, driven in large part by pre-school
and school age aquatic programs that collectively added 2,800 new participants.
x Aqua -fit, private and semi -private lesson registrations moderately grew, while
participation in adult swimming programs declined by 21%.
x The average program fill rate increased from 73% in 2010 to 81% in 2014 with the
Municipality adding programs to accommodate increasing participation. Although the
average fill rate suggests that some capacity exists to accommodate additional registrants,
capacity in some programs is constrained to a greater extent than for others (e.g. little
capacity is presently available for preschool, private and semi -private programs).
x Participation in drop-in swimming experienced a slight decline, with over 66,000 swims
recorded in 2015, down 19% (-14,774 swims) from 2010.
x Participation in registered and recreation swimming is strongest at the Newcastle &
District Recreation Complex where participation in registered programs increased by 150%
to reach 6,450 participants. With the Municipality significantly increasing its registered
aquatic program capacity in Newcastle between 2014 and 2015 (possibly to accommodate
programs displaced during the Alan Strike Pool renovation), this could explain the
considerable drop in the number recreational swims in this one year period (20,000 fewer
drop-in swims between 2014 and 2015) as recreational swims had been trending upwards
in the years prior.
x Registered swims at the Courtice Community Complex grew by 41% with 1,000
participants, while the number of drop-in visits increased by 10% to reach 23,081 swims.
x The Alan Strike Aquatic and Squash Centre is the least used pool for municipal programs
and drop-in swims because of the pool tank design with no ramp access and no shallow
pool depth for younger participants. For this reason, it is the home location for the
Clarington Swim Club who like the six lane rectangular design of the pool. Registered and
drop-in swims declined by 44% and 48%, respectively, noting that 2014 and 2015
participation levels were impacted by the facility's closure during renovation.
x The Municipality's Swim/Skate pass grew nearly five -fold, with 37,499 passes issued in
2015.
Facility Needs Assessment
Clarington's existing supply of indoor aquatics facilities achieves a strong level of service in terms
of geography and on a population basis (one aquatic centre in each of the urban settlement areas
and the highest service level in southern Durham Region). A service level target of one indoor
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Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
aquatic centre per 35,000 population was employed at the time the Newcastle indoor pool was
constructed, a level of service that if maintained will be sufficient to meet needs until the
Municipality achieves a population of 105,000 (projected to occur in the next four to five years).
A revised level of service target is recommended as the Clarington continues to grow, adjusting
to a range of one indoor pool per 35,000 to 40,000 population now that the Municipality has
strong distribution in geography, has achieved a critical mass in facility provision for each urban
settlement, and there is a slight degree of programming capacity available. The higher end of this
range at 1:40,000 is consistent with many G.T.A. communities and remains well above the south
Durham average. Based on this level of service, the Municipality's pool supply would be sufficient
until a population threshold of 120,000 is reached (expected eight to ten years from now).
By the end of the planning period in 2031 when the population is forecasted to reach 140,400
residents, the Municipality is projected to have a deficit of between 0.5 and 1.0 indoor aquatic
centres, depending on whether the historical 1:35,000 or the adjusted 1:40,000 service level is
applied. However, geographic distribution to population remains a key factor with future
pressures for indoor aquatics expected to be greatest in Bowmanville for two primary reasons:
1) The population of Bowmanville is projected to be 64,200 by 2031, well above the targeted
provision standard placing significant pressure on existing all aquatic facilities, particularly
the A.S.A.S.C. which has a limited ability to meet broad community needs due its pool tank
design limitations. Other urban areas, on the other hand, are projected to achieve service
levels between 1 per 36,000 and 40,000 by 2031 (within the recommended provision
target).
2) The A.S.A.S.C. pool only has a single tank whereas the other two facilities are larger and
have multiple tanks which allows the latter to accommodate more users than the former
and expanded programming capacity.
Note: service level based on the 3 existing indoor aquatic centres and population forecasts prepared by
Hemson Consulting, 2013.
The recommended implementation strategy is to:
a) Renovate and expand the Courtice Community Complex's indoor aquatics centre in a
manner that increases its programming capacity and alleviates growth -related pressures
in the short to medium-term. As this is a lesser cost action than constructing a new
aquatics facility, this action allows the Municipality additional time through which
Development Charges can be collected towards a new indoor aquatics facility while
addressing short-term needs through a capacity expansion of an existing asset.
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Service Level
Service Level
Service Level
Community
(2016)
(2026)
(2031)
Bowmanville
1 : 40,500
1 : 55,100
1 :64,200
Courtice
1 : 28,100
1 : 33,900
1 : 36,600
Newcastle & Rural
1 : 28,500
1 : 34,900
1 : 39,600
Municipality of Clarington
1 : 32,400
1 : 41,300
1 : 46,800
Note: service level based on the 3 existing indoor aquatic centres and population forecasts prepared by
Hemson Consulting, 2013.
The recommended implementation strategy is to:
a) Renovate and expand the Courtice Community Complex's indoor aquatics centre in a
manner that increases its programming capacity and alleviates growth -related pressures
in the short to medium-term. As this is a lesser cost action than constructing a new
aquatics facility, this action allows the Municipality additional time through which
Development Charges can be collected towards a new indoor aquatics facility while
addressing short-term needs through a capacity expansion of an existing asset.
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Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
b) Develop a new indoor aquatics centre after the Municipality's population reaches a
minimum of 140,000 persons (estimated in 2030), at which time the deficit will be
equivalent to between 0.5 and 1.0 indoor aquatic facilities on a municipal -wide basis.
When looking specifically at Bowmanville, its population is projected to reach around 62,000 by
the year 2030 resulting in a deficit equivalent to between 0.5 and 0.8 indoor aquatic facilities
(geographically relative to Bowmanville's population). Prior to construction of a Bowmanville
aquatics facility, provision of a new indoor aquatics centre should be reconfirmed through master
planning and/or business planning exercises. The proposed supply of four indoor aquatic centres
would result in a service level of 1 per 35,100 by the year 2031 across the entire Municipality,
congruent with the historical provision target but with capacity anticipated to accommodate some
additional population growth beyond the planning period of this Facilities Strategy.
The preferred site for a new indoor aquatics centre is the Bowmanville Indoor Soccer Facility since
it has sufficient land available onsite to accommodate expansion to its respective footprints. Since
arena and gymnasium expansions have also been touted for existing facilities (as discussed in
subsequent sections), securing new lands for a future indoor aquatics centre is not advanced due
to existing co -location potential (a stand-alone indoor aquatic centre is not recommended).
A new indoor aquatics centre in Bowmanville, if designed in a manner that is similar to the
Newcastle pool, has the potential to impact utilization of the A.S.A.S.C. as residents and possibly
competitive swimmers would strongly favour a modern new pool for its amenity value. That said,
a new pool creates additional and/or expanded opportunities to increase times dedicated to
competitive swimming and other pool programs not currently being offered with limited time at
the A.S.A.S.C. This highlights the importance of confirming existing facility capacity and facility
needs prior to construction at a time closer to when the overall population reaches 140,000 people
to ensure that the timing of a new aquatic centre does not result in significant negative impact on
the A.S.A.S.C. (e.g. potential for the pool to be underutilized during non -prime and shoulder -prime
hours, as well as impact financial performance since aquatic programming tends to drive revenues
to a greater degree than rentals to affiliate users).
Future Directions: Courtice and Newcastle
No changes are currently envisioned for the Newcastle & District Recreation Complex aquatic
centre as the facility is still relatively new. Future efforts will be focused on general and on-going
maintenance of the facility.
To address future growth needs in Courtice and surrounding areas, the Courtice Community
Complex's existing aquatic centre should be evaluated for opportunities to improve its aesthetic
and functional components. At a minimum, the following options should be considered at the
Courtice Community complex within the next seven years:
x Reconfiguring the teaching pool as its present depth and dimensions limit its capacity
to deliver simultaneous programming — the teaching pool could be redesigned in a
manner similar to that found in Newcastle.
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Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
x Integration of a warmer water therapeutic/rehab pool (either integrated as part of the
aforementioned teaching pool or constructed as a separate tank) would offer logical
synergies with the other 55+ programs that will become a greater area of focus with the
Municipality's move to make the Courtice Community Complex a hub for older adult
programming.
x Enlarging the change rooms, particularly the family change room which by accounts from
consultations is too small in relation to the level of use that it receives — alternatively, the
area occupied by the existing change rooms could be integrated within the natatorium to
provide additional aquatic space, with new change rooms being rebuilt through an
expansion.
Expansion of the building footprint will likely be required depending upon the type/scale of
improvements undertaken. A westerly expansion of the community centre appears possible
(consuming the existing soccer field). Of note, some projects have already been completed for the
Courtice Community Complex in the Municipality's 2015 capital budget, including re -grouting
pool tiles, deck lighting, new dressing room countertops, and purchasing a water wheelchair.
Future Directions: Bowmanville
Municipal Staff note that recent renovations to the A.S.A.S.C. were implemented with the intent
of extending its lifecycle by a minimum of ten years. If the A.S.A.S.C.'s end of useful life coincides
with the construction of the proposed new aquatics (proposed thirteen to fifteen years from now
based on population projections), the new aquatics centre would function as a replacement to the
A.S.A.S.C. No net gain in the number of aquatic centres would mean that the service level in
Bowmanville would remain lower compared to other settlement areas recognizing, however, that
functional limitations of the A.S.A.S.C. pool means it does not contribute the same level of service
as do the pools in Courtice or Newcastle. In fact, the A.S.A.S.C. cannot be expected to fully
accommodate growth -related demands of the population beyond competitive swimming due to
the functional constraints that limit barrier -free access, inability to integrate warm water uses, etc.
This brings about two primary issues that the Municipality will have to explore at the time at which
the recommended master planning and/or indoor aquatics business planning exercises are
conducted to confirm the need/design/site for the proposed new aquatic centre.
1) Assuming that further renewal of the A.S.A.S.C. pool is neither structurally feasible and/or
fiscally responsible, at that future time the Municipality would need to consider options to
either repurpose the space to a non -aquatic use or engage in discussions with the
School Board to determine whether school enrollments are such that the School Board
sees value in purchasing the facility from the Municipality for delivery of its educational
curriculum. Proceeds from the sale of property could be reinvested back into new
recreation facility construction.
2) There will likely be considerable pressure placed on the proposed new aquatics centre in
Bowmanville having to service over 64,000 persons in that community, if/when the
A.S.A.S.C. pool is decommissioned. Furthermore, another new aquatics centre (i.e. a total
future supply of 4 aquatics centres) would be required to attain Municipal -wide service
Monteith Brown Planning Consultants with TRA & MJMA I Page 25
Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
level standards of 1:35,000 to 1:40,000 meaning that the Municipality must be prepared
to construct an aquatic centre shortly after the planning period associated with this
Facilities Strategy (i.e. post 2031). Fortunately, the Municipality has identified a couple of
future Community Park sites in Bowmanville (see Section 5.2) that are potential options to
consider new indoor facility development.
In the interim period between when the A.S.A.S.C. pool can continue to effectively and safely
function and the time at which reaches the end of its useful life, it should continue to be operated
by the Municipality. The A.S.A.S.C. pool could also continue to operate for a period of time after
the proposed new aquatics centre in order to relieve any pressures and bridge the gap in time
between if/when a second new indoor aquatics centre is constructed in Bowmanville after the
current planning period. Continued operation of the A.S.A.S.C. pool is only recommended where
the Municipality can direct minimal investments into health and safety-related improvements (i.e.
a catastrophic mechanical or structural failure would provide the impetus to close the facility).
Summary of Indoor Aquatic Facility Directions
1. Enhance the Courtice Community Complex indoor aquatics centre in the 2024 time frame
to facilitate a greater range of learn -to -swim, aquatic fitness and/or aquatic rehabilitation
programming. This would involve reconfiguring the existing natatorium and expanding it
to the west, depending upon improvements undertaken, as well as enlarging change room
areas.
2. Construct a new indoor aquatics centre at the Bowmanville Indoor Soccer Facility once the
Municipality of Clarington's population reaches 140,000, subject to the following:
a. Reconfirming the need for a new aquatic centre shortly before this population
threshold is reached or by the year 2029 (whichever comes first) through a
feasibility analysis and architectural plan to reflect community needs at that time.
b. Operating the Alan Strike Aquatic & Squash Centre until it reaches the end of its
useful life, so long as the pool continues to attract a sustainable degree of use and
renewal costs can be relegated to basic health and safety requirements. At the end
of the pool's useful life, the Municipality should confirm potential adaptive re -use
possibilities as well as determine whether the School Board has an interest in
purchasing the building to deliver its ongoing curriculum.
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Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
Indoor Aquatic Facility Development Scenario Illustrated
Maintain Newcastle &
District Community
Complex Pool
4.3 Arenas
Supply
Courtice Community
Complex Pool Expansion
and Reconfiguration
Indoor Aquatics Centre Study at
140,000 population or year 2030
(whichever comes first)
1
If Proceeding
Construct a new Indoor Aquatics
Centre at Bowmanville Indoor
Soccer Facility
Maintain the Alan Strike
Aquatic & Squash Centre
Pool
Repurpose or Divest Alan
Strike Pool at the End of
its Useful Life
Clarington operates five ice pads located at the Darlington Sports Centre (1), Garnet B. Rickard
Recreation Complex (2), and South Courtice Arena (2). The Municipality also owns two ice pads at
the Orono Arena & Community Centre and Newcastle Memorial Arena that are operated on its
behalf by independent arena boards resulting in a total of seven ice pads located in Clarington.
Collectively, all of these arenas achieve excellent geographic distribution, serving all residents
living within the Municipality's urban centres within a 10 to 15 minute driving distance.
As per the Terms of Reference for this Facilities Strategy, the board -operated arenas in Newcastle
and Orono are not included under the scope of assessments and thus no recommendations will
be made for them.
Planning Context
Organized hockey across Canada has experienced declining participation levels since a
registration peak in the 2008/09 season,' driven by a number of factors such as escalating costs
(of equipment, travel, and rental/registration fees), greater concerns over safety, and immigration
from non -hockey playing nations. Recreational skating remains a popular activity for those
learning to skate or seeking an occasional leisure time pursuit, but generally represents a small
portion of overall arena use.
4 Hockey Canada. Annual General Meeting Reports.
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Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
The Public Information Centres revealed interest from some residents for additional ice pads due
to perceived limitations in booking desired ice times, most specifically at the Rickard Complex and
at the South Courtice Arena. Some attendees also expressed a desire for an arena to be added to
the Newcastle & District Recreation Complex. The focus group which included representation of
some arena user groups also expressed demands for additional prime time access to support
growing programs (such as female hockey) and participant bases. Due to challenges with booking
ice in Clarington, some groups stated they use facilities in other municipalities to accommodate
their needs which they believe should be accommodated within Clarington; with Oshawa recently
decommissioning its Children's Arena in 2015, this could affect certain Clarington users and
increase demand for local ice opportunities. Additionally, users requested additional/larger
dressing rooms (male and female), as well as storage space, referee rooms, and dryland training
space.
At present, including the board -run arenas as part of the total supply, Clarington provides the
second highest level of service in southern Durham Region.
Table 3: Benchmarked Municipal Ice Pads
Municipality
I Population No. of Ice Pads
Service Level
Ajax
121,900 5
24,380
Pickering
95,800 5
19,160
Oshawa
160,900 8
20,113
Whitby
Average
Clarington
133,400 10
128,000 7
95,300 7
13,340
19,248
13,614
Utilization
Municipally operated arenas (i.e. excluding board -run facilities in Newcastle and Orono) have
achieved strong levels of use over the past five seasons, averaging 93% prime time utilization
rate.' The prime utilization rate for the current 2015/16 season is estimated to be in the 92% range
based on current allocations and schedules. Other key utilization trends gleaned from municipal
reporting include:
x The prime utilization rate on weekdays is estimated at 93% for the 2015/16 winter season,
which is considered to be strong but a general downward trend is being observed as
weekday prime utilization was 97% in 2011/12.
x Conversely, weekend prime time bookings have generally fluctuated between 91% and
95% over the past five seasons. Among all prime times available during the week, there
5 The Municipality defines prime time hours as 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. on weekdays and all day on weekends.
Data reflects bookings between October and February to reflect peak season usage (actual arena season
runs from September to March) excluding holidays, maintenance, and other times arenas were closed.
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Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
appears to be capacity to accommodate additional usage on weekends before 8 am and
after 10 pm (during the less desirable shoulder hours).
Prime time usage across each ice pad has largely been stable (±150 hours) as have
corresponding prime time utilization rates (±3%).
In additional to community rentals, the Municipality delivers a range of recreational skating
programs, including public skating, shinny, and parent and tot skating (primarily during
non -prime hours). Participation in recreational programs has collectively grown by 60%
(+12,000 visits) since 2010 largely in public skating (including Skate 55 and Parent and Tot)
and adult shinny. Ticket Ice bookings for figure skating groups declined by 78%.
Opportunities to expand or increase the number of ice programs offered by the
Municipality is somewhat limited by the relatively high utilization of prime time ice rentals.
While Clarington Staff's review of ongoing 2016/17 season suggests that bookings are
slightly down compared to the previous season, actual utilization will not be available until
the current season ends in Spring 2017 and Municipal Staff have indicated they could
potentially make use of any unbooked times for municipal programming.
Facility Needs Assessment
Previous studies undertaken for the Municipality have used a service level target of one ice pad
per 700 to 750 registered players to determine arena needs. The Municipality indicates that there
were 3,620 players registered during the 2015/16 ice season using municipally -operated arenas
(i.e. 5 ice pads). These stated registrations excludes arena users that exclusively use the ice pads
operated by the independent arena boards including, but not limited to, the Newcastle Village
Minor Hockey Association, Orono Figure Skating Club, and Orono and Newcastle Rep Leagues.
Registered players utilizing municipal arenas result in a service level of one ice pad per 725 players.
A service level target of 1:700, as articulated in Community Services Department Strategic Plan, is
used as the basis for this assessment while it is assumed that the penetration rate will remain
constant over the planning period.
On this basis, the Municipality is projected to have a current deficit of 0.2 ice pads and although
utilization data shows modest time available, these hours tend to be associated with shoulder
hours and/or fall in between other programmed time slots (e.g. 30 or 45 minute remnant blocks
that are not bookable). With limited choice and ability in rental opportunities, the service level is
deemed to be representative of the current situation.
Assuming capture rates for minor players and adult players remain unchanged, the Municipality
is projected to have 4,650 players by the end of the planning period. This registration would result
in a need for a total of 6.6 ice pads to service players solely using municipal arenas, resulting in a
growth -related deficit of 1.6 ice pads. This analysis does not include any players exclusively using
the two board -operated arenas in Newcastle and Orono (i.e. future needs in relation to the board -
run supply of ice pads should be assessed separately). However, as noted above, during the
consultations, it was noted that the Newcastle organizations are in need of additional ice time
which could be accommodated if the Municipality were to develop an additional ice pad(s).
Monteith Brown Planning Consultants with TRA & MJMA I Page 29
Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
Year
2016
2026
2031
Projected Registration
(2016)
(2026)
(2031)
(based on current youth and adult -specific capture rates)
3,620
4,072
4,650
Number of Ice Pads Required
1 : 11,240
1 : 13,560
1 : 14,640
(based on 1 ice pad per 700 players)
5.2
5.8
6.6
Ice Pad Deficit
1 : 13,870
1 : 17,700
1 :20,060
(based on a supply of 5 municipally -operated ice pads)
0.2
0.8
1.6
Note: In the absence of reaistration data for arouos exclusivelv usina the two board
-operated arenas. which
are not included in the scope of this study, only municipally -operated arenas are reflected in the analysis
along with the number of registrants using them.
Service levels across the Municipality on a population -basis are analyzed to determine a location
for the new ice pads. Across each of the urban settlement areas, Bowmanville has the lowest level
of service which will be compounded by the fact that its population is projected to grow the most.
Newcastle and area (including Orono) has the next lowest level of service. Of note, it is assumed
that the Darlington Sports Centre largely services Courtice and Bowmanville and thus Darlington
Sports Centre is assumed to contribute (for the purposes of this Strategy) 0.5 ice pad equivalents
to each of these two urban areas. On the basis of distribution, it is evident that Bowmanville will
likely experience on-going pressures on its ices pads as the population continues to increase in
this area.
Community
Service Level
Service Level
Service Level
(2016)
(2026)
(2031)
Bowmanville (2.5 ice pads)
1 : 16,200
1 : 22,040
1 : 25,680
Courtice (2.5 ice pads)
1 : 11,240
1 : 13,560
1 : 14,640
Newcastle & Area (2 ice pads)
1 : 14,250
1 : 17,400
1 : 19,800
Municipality of Clarington
1 : 13,870
1 : 17,700
1 :20,060
Note: service level is based on the 5 ice pads operated by the Municipality arenas and 2 ice pads operated
by Arena Boards - population forecasts prepared by Hemson Consulting, 2013.
Of note, the Community Services Department completed a major renovation at Darlington Sports
Centre in 2010. The $2.2M project included the replacement of the arena floor and in -floor
refrigeration piping, arena refrigeration system equipment replacement, general mechanical /
electrical and life safety improvements, expansion of the entrance and lobby areas including
improved accessibility and interior finish upgrades. The objective of this renovation was to extend
the functional life of this facility for an additional 10-15 years. Originally built in 1975, this facility
will be 50 years old in 2025. The Municipality will have to remain apprised of this aging arena in
terms of its capital renewal investments in relation to remaining lifecycle, and whether such
renewals are the most optimal use of resources in meeting the demand for ice pads in Clarington
at that site or elsewhere (if the ice pad is still needed based on future supply and demand
conditions).
Based on the projection of registrations and ice pad requirements over the next fifteen years,
along with an understanding from Municipal Staff that there are considerable pressures being
placed on the arena supply at present time, the preferred course of action is to develop two new
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Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
ice pads in 2019 in Bowmanville. Staff indicate that evidence of latent demand for ice time is
demonstrated through:
x Community Services Public Programming — the Municipality delivers the majority of its
public skating programs during weekday daytime hours, and receives numerous requests
from residents to expand programming into evenings and weekends. The Municipality
estimates that it could expand its programming by up to 10 hours per week, including
introducing shinny and adult skating, if delivered in prime time.
x Special Events — the Municipality is unable to approve all special event requests due to
inflexibility in arena capacity which would otherwise impact regular user groups booking
prime time ice. Staff estimate that up to 200 hours per season could be accommodated
by special events such as tournaments and skating competitions.
x Minor Sport Ice Allocation — Municipal Staff indicate that a number of minor ice sport
groups must take a disproportionate amount of weekend ice that can affect their ability
to run programs that best suit their membership base. Staff suggest that an increased
supply of ice will allow minor sport groups to book larger blocks of ice time that could be
used for both practices and games, and the redistribution of weekend ice could facilitate
greater special event bookings as discussed above. There is also an opportunity for groups
to deliver hockey skills development -related programming that is not presently provided
due to ice time constraints.
x Reliance on Arenas Outside of Clarington — a number of minor and adult organizations
permit ice at arenas in Oshawa given constraints on prime time ice in Clarington. Staff and
groups estimate that nearly 40 hours per week of prime time ice could be re -absorbed
back into Clarington's by local organizations moving their programming back.
x Adult Hockey Leagues — the Municipality has not been able to accommodate requests for
additional ice time and in fact has had to reduce or move adult ice time in order to
accommodate minor users. Staff see potential in expanding ice time used by regular adult
renters as well as attracting adult players who have left Clarington back into local arenas
leading to an assumption that Clarington-based ice organizations would prefer to rent ice
in the Municipality and would do so if/when the ice supply is increased.
x Newcastle Arena Board - the Newcastle Arena Board indicated that demand for ice was
high and their user groups could use additional ice time. As the ice demand for the board -
run arena is not included in this Strategy, the current and projected deficit of ice pads
could be under -estimated (this assumption appears to the supported by input from
Newcastle ice representatives that indicated a demand for additional ice to meet the needs
of board -run ice users — particularly those currently utilizing the arena in Newcastle).
It should also be noted that the provision of additional ice in Clarington could - at least in the
near-term - result in most, if not all ice needs being met within 'prime time' slots while non -prime
time slots fill in as the community continues to grow over time. This is a similar strategy that the
Municipality employed with respect to the provision of indoor aquatic facilities with a facility being
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Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
provided in Newcastle in advance of supporting population growth which the Municipality is now
seeing increased utilization. Prior to constructing a twin pad in Bowmanville, the Municipality
should conduct an internal confirmation process to ensure that demand and market conditions
remain strong for ice in Clarington as the noted observations relating to latent demand indicate.
In deciding where to situate new ice pad(s), the following discussion is intended to assist in
informing this consideration:
1. Bowmanville Indoor Soccer Facility (preferred option) — with ample land available to
the north of the existing building, this would create operational efficiencies by centralizing
staff particularly if also integrating an indoor aquatics component as previously identified
through a Phase 2 expansion. In the event that multiple additional ice pads are rationalized
— either to serve growth -related needs and/or to replace an aging ice pad(s) elsewhere (e.g.
Darlington Sports Centre) — the Bowmanville Indoor Soccer Facility is the preferred
candidate. Locating the ice pads in Bowmanville will increase the long-term service level of
ice pads per population for that community, bringing it closer to service levels in the
Newcastle/Orono and surrounding areas; generally in line with provision levels in
comparable communities experiencing significant population growth.
2. Newcastle & District Recreation Complex — there is ample land available onsite through
which the existing building could be expanded. More importantly, locating an arena here
maintains a level of service to Clarington's eastern settlements which is important
considering the Newcastle Arena is an aging facility and a wholesale renewal in that single
pad arena is not favoured if a multi -pad arena could otherwise be built (the current
Newcastle Arena site does not have sufficient land to accommodate a second pad). Prior
to the development of a new twin pad arena at this location, the Municipality and Newcastle
Arena Board should take into consideration future capital investments for the existing
Newcastle Arena in relation to its overall financial and operational sustainability, either as
an arena or a repurposed facility. The need to provide ice pads in Newcastle should be
reconfirmed in 2023 as part of a re -assessment of arena needs which should occur shortly
after the proposed ice pads in south Bowmanville become operational.
3. South Courtice Arena — the building was originally designed to cost-effectively and
functionally accommodate an additional two ice pads to the north. This would result in
Courtice providing 1 ice pad per 11,000 at the end of the planning period, which is a similar
to the existing service level for Courtice but is considered a high level of service. While this
may attract some players from west Durham, this represents minimal potential as the City
of Oshawa presently has capacity in their arena system. On the other hand, a four -pad arena
facility has many operational and programming benefits that should not be overlooked,
however, this must also be factored with the proposed recommendation to expand the
South Courtice Arena's small gymnasium (see Section 4.5) which would not likely be
possible if also adding two new ice pads. However, should the longer-term reassessment
of arena needs (conducted after the proposed Newcastle twin pad arena) rationalize the
need for only one additional ice pad, South Courtice Arena is the preferred choice in order
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Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
to maintain efficiencies associated with the Municipality's multi -pad arena model and the
addition of one ice pad could likely fit along with the proposed gymnasium.
In addition to new arena construction, an opportunity is also identified through which to improve
off-season usage of the Rickard Complex. In conjunction with capital renewal projects identified
at the Rickard Complex through the Municipality's asset management plans, it is anticipated that
the Municipality will concurrently explore opportunities to resolve existing logistical constraints
relating to dry floor use (e.g. barriers to accommodating large trade shows and events such as
large equipment/vehicle access to the floor) with budgeted construction/renewal activities since
there may be some cost efficiencies that may be attained.
It is noted that the Municipality already has an Ice Allocation Policy in draft form. Among other
things, this policy will collect annual registration data that will allow the Municipality to track
trends in overall participation and utilization, resident versus non-resident usage, division trends
(age groupings), usage and times for adults, etc. that places the Municipality in a stronger position
to proactively respond or anticipate changes in demands/needs. Priority should be placed on
finalizing and implementing this policy at arenas operated by the Municipality of Clarington. In
addition, discussions with the independent arena boards should also continue to take place to
understand their operating profiles and how they might potentially align with and be impacted
by a municipal allocation policy. The tracking of ice allocation trends, along with coordination with
arena boards, will better position the Municipality to confirm the demand for additional ice prior
to constructing a new arena facility.
Summary of Arena Facility Directions
1. Implement an Ice Allocation Policy and continue to collect detailed registration
information for each arena user (i.e. number of players, their age and residency) and
whether efficiencies can be achieved to alleviate pressures on existing Municipally -
operated ice pads in the immediate term.
2. Continue to engage the independent Arena Boards to understand the level of demand
being expressed by local arena user groups.
3. Conduct an internal process to ensure that demand for additional ice pads is rationalized
from a capital and operating perspective (with consideration of outcomes of implementing
the Ice Allocation Policy), target the construction of a twin pad arena for 2019 preferably
at the Bowmanville Indoor Soccer Facility.
4. Reconfirm arena needs in 2023, after the proposed twin pad arena is constructed at the
Bowmanville Indoor Soccer Facility to understand how arena allocation and utilization
performance has been influenced by the new ice pads. Should this reassessment of needs
determine that an additional ice pad(s) is required to meet growth -related needs of the
population and/or to replace one of the Municipality's aging single pad arena(s),
Monteith Brown Planning Consultants with TRA & MJMA I Page 33
Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
consideration should be given to locating future ice pads at the Newcastle & District
Recreation Complex by way of a future phase expansion.
5. Remain apprised of the aging Darlington Sports Centre arena in terms of its capital renewal
investments in relation to remaining lifecycle, and whether such renewals are the most
optimal use of resources relative to meeting the demand for ice pads in Clarington at that
site or elsewhere (if the ice pad is still needed based on future supply and demand
conditions).
Arena Facility Development Scenario Illustrated
Implement an Ice Allocation Remain Apprised of
Policy and Monitor Needs in Board -Run
Performance Arenas
Construct a new Twin Pad Arena at the
Bowmanville Indoor Soccer Facility
Newcastle & District
IRecreation Complex
Evaluate Needs for Additional Ice Pad(s)
Site Selection Process South Courtice
Arena
4.4 Indoor Artificial Turf Fields
Supply
The Municipality operates an indoor turf fieldhouse at the Bowmanville Indoor Soccer Facility. The
180' by 100' field can be used for full size play as well as be partitioned into two smaller fields to
support simultaneous rentals.
Planning Context
Clarington was among the first municipalities in the province to develop a dedicated indoor
artificial turf fieldhouse in response to increasing demands for year-round soccer. While the
primary use of artificial turf fields is for soccer, these fields often accommodate multiple activities
including rugby, lacrosse, football, Ultimate Frisbee, lawn bowling, team conditioning and training,
and other fitness pursuits. The Municipality is regularly exploring opportunities to bolster usage
of the indoor turf field, most recently introducing 'boot camp' style fitness classes and partnering
with Lakeridge Health Oshawa for an on -field cardiac rehabilitation program. The public
engagement process contributed limited input regarding indoor artificial fields, with the most
notable feedback centring upon facilitating greater access to the indoor field for baseball and
field lacrosse users to support their year-round games and training. One comment expressed a
desire for a similar indoor artificial turf field in Courtice.
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Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
The design and size of indoor turf fields varies by facility, though most are divisible into two, three
or four smaller fields to accommodate simultaneous rentals usually for 30 to 7v7 play. For
example, the indoor fields in Clarington and Whitby are divisible into two fields whereas Oshawa's
regulation size rectangular field provides four simultaneous programming opportunities.
Clarington provides a service level of one indoor artificial turf field per 95,300 residents, which is
the highest level of service compared to benchmark comparators although cautious interpretation
is required since Pickering and Oshawa's fields are much larger in size and thus offer a greater
degree of capacity than does the field in Clarington (particularly since most games are played on
the full field in Clarington due to certain limitations such as only having four change rooms).
Table 4: Benchmarked Municipal Indoor Artificial Turf Fields (Small Field Equivalents)
Municipality
Population
No. of Indoor
Turf Facilities
No. of Indoor
Turf Sub -Fields
Service Level
(Facilities)
Service Level
(Sub -Fields)
Ajax
121,900
0
0
-
-
Pickering
95,800
1
4
95,800
23,950
Oshawa
160,900
1
4
160,900
40,225
Whitby
133,400
1
2
133,400
66,700
Average
Clarington
128,000
95,300
1
1
3
2
130,000
95,300
43,625
47,650
Note: Supply of 'sub -fields' reflects small field equivalents that generally equate to one quarter of a full
field. Benchmarked supply excludes private sector facilities.
Utilization
The Municipality permits the indoor artificial field in full and half field configurations, although
the majority of bookings are for the full field. Half field bookings are limited and have generally
been challenging to accommodate given that the facility only contains four dressing rooms.
Utilization data, expressed in 'half field equivalents', shows that approximately 2,000 hours were
booked in 2014 though this number has been consistently declining since 2010 with a 32%
reduction in prime -time rentals over the past five years (950 fewer hours booked).
Reductions in hourly bookings coincide with decreasing registrations with the Darlington Soccer
Club, who is primary user of the field. Their current registration of about 975 players represents a
23% reduction compared to their 2011 registration (300 fewer players), something that the Soccer
Club attributes to growing competition from indoor turf facilities in area municipalities such as
Oshawa and Whitby.
In addition to field rentals, the Municipality runs a drop-in soccer program for residents during
non -prime hours. Participation in this program is modest and declining, with under 240 drop-in
visits in 2014 representing a 19% decline from 2010. The Municipality also promotes the
Bowmanville Indoor Soccer Facility for indoor walking to encourage physical activity, although this
activity does not require use of the field. This activity has proven to be popular, drawing over 7,000
walkers in 2014, which is an increase of nearly 30% compared to 2010.
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Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
Facility Needs Assessment
There are no set service levels for the provision of indoor artificial turf facilities, although they are
becoming increasingly prevalent in communities with populations over 50,000 and those with
robust soccer programs. Based on current trends and declining utilization rates, the Bowmanville
Indoor Soccer Facility is anticipated to meet needs over the master planning period as an existing
level of service is already provided locally where additional capacity has become available due to
declining bookings. The 1,100 unused prime time evening and weekend hours in 2014 generally
equates to between 45 and 50 hours per week (noting that a portion of this unused time is
attributable to shoulder months in April and May, where the construction of the outdoor artificial
field at South Courtice has likely drawn some usage away from the indoor field). Strong service
levels already apparent throughout Durham Region from both public and private sector operators
will also likely continue to service a portion of localized demand over time.
Accordingly, no new indoor turf fields are recommended over the planning period. However, other
capital projects recommended for the Bowmanville Indoor Soccer Facility through this Facilities
Strategy creates an opportunity to reconcile at least one functional limitation. Expansion of the
building envelope should also result in the addition of a minimum of two new dressing rooms to
service the indoor turf field (and possibly the proposed gymnasium as well). Doing so will
potentially increase the number of half field bookings which could also have the effect of driving
additional revenue through volume bookings (half field bookings are appealing since they are
lower cost).
Across Durham Region and other parts of the Greater Golden Horseshoe, public-private
partnerships are becoming more common in providing indoor turf fields. Each partnership is
unique and affords different levels of access to the public. For example, the Municipality and the
Darlington Soccer Club have a unique relationship whereby the Club contributed $500,000
towards the construction cost of the Bowmanville Indoor Soccer Facility. However, consultations
associated with this plan resulted in other field sport organizations expressing interest in booking
indoor field time and Municipal Staff will have to consider such requests as part of equitably
allocating the field, particularly as they work to diversify uses/rentals to mitigate declining
bookings from the Soccer Club. Furthermore, increased foot traffic from the proposed
recommendations to add an indoor aquatics centre, gymnasium and twin pad arena could
generate greater interest in field rentals, again reinforcing the need for the Municipality to track
participation trends in order to be prepared for additional requests for indoor field time.
Should the Municipality be approached by a third party interested in operating an indoor turf
facility through a partnership agreement, the merits of such a partnership should be evaluated
against existing corporate principles and frameworks, such as those recommended in the
Community Services Department Strategic Plan, and supported by business planning that
confirms such an endeavour would not adversely affect the operating performance of the
Bowmanville Indoor Soccer Facility.
Summary of Indoor Turf Facility Directions
1. As part of proposed first phase expansion to the Bowmanville Indoor Soccer Facility as
identified through the Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy (for new
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Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
gymnasium, fitness and program space), integrate a minimum of two new dressing rooms
to service the indoor turf fieldhouse in order to increase the appeal for half field bookings.
2. Review allocation practices and policies for the Bowmanville Indoor Soccer Field to
determine an equitable approach to accommodating all field sport users interested in
using the facility during prime time hours. This review should engage the Darlington
Soccer Club and other potential users of the field, as appropriate.
3. No new indoor turf fields are recommended unless done so in partnership with a third
party, so long as such a partnership is consistent with Municipal principles and values
surrounding partnerships and that it can demonstrate it will not unduly compromise the
operational sustainability of the Bowmanville Indoor Soccer Facility.
4.5 Gymnasiums
Supply
The Municipality operates a full gymnasium at the Newcastle & District Recreation Complex and
a small gymnasium (roughly equating to a quarter size gym) at the South Courtice Arena. Each
location supports a range of indoor recreation activities that require a hard surface. In addition,
the Municipality augments its supply through facilitated access to gymnasium space in local
elementary schools.
Planning Context
Gymnasiums provide flexible spaces that accommodate a broad range of indoor sports and
recreation activities. Most often, gymnasiums are used for active sports (basketball, volleyball,
floor hockey, pickleball, etc.), active programming (aerobics, fitness, dance, etc.), and other
activities that are compatible with hard surface courts. Municipalities sometimes utilize gym space
for other non -recreational activities such as trade shows, large gatherings, and other events,
although these practices are typically discouraged if these activities are not compatible with the
floor type. Residents who participated in the public consultation sessions highly valued
Clarington's gymnasium space as they provide a wide range of indoor hard surface activities.
Due to the small size of the South Courtice Arena gym, it is factored as 0.25 equivalents. Therefore,
Clarington's effective supply of 1.25 gyms results in a service level of one gym per 76,240 residents
and achieves the second highest level of service in southern Durham Region. However,
comparisons with benchmarked municipalities should be interpreted with caution given that some
communities may provide fewer gymnasium facilities if they have greater access to school
gymnasiums through partnerships or joint -use agreements. For example, Whitby residents have
access to ten school gymnasiums through a community-based provider and another gym at the
Abilities Centre, therefore, that municipality has only one municipally -operated gymnasium.
Monteith Brown Planning Consultants with TRA & MJMA I Page 37
Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
Table 5: Benchmarked Municipal Gymnasiums
Note: South Courtice Arena gymnasium is undersized and considered as 0.25 gyms
Utilization
Use of Clarington's gymnasiums is growing with more than 7,400 hours booked in 2014,
representing a 50% increase since 2010 (+2,500 hours). A review of gymnasium schedules
indicates that gymnasium usage at the Newcastle and South Courtice locations are very popular
during the evenings and weekends, with room to accommodate additional usage during the
daytime hours. Approximately two-thirds of booked hours are attributable to the more desirable
gym space in Newcastle despite it drawing from a smaller population base at present (the facility
was designed to accommodate long-term population growth of Newcastle and area which should
increase utilization of this facility over time). Increased focus on older adult (including the popular
pickleball activity), fitness, and pre-school programs should also improve utilization in both gyms.
In recent years, rentals have generally levelled off at the South Courtice Arena gymnasium for a
number of reasons. In order to generate increased usage, the Municipality has considerably
increased the number of group fitness programs delivered within that space. This has offset
decreasing rentals and made good use of a space that is otherwise restricted in its ability to
accommodate traditional gymnasium activities (i.e. despite diminishing rentals, overall usage of
the space is generally being maintained).
Facility Needs Assessment
The decision to add municipal gymnasiums is based upon a number of factors, most notably the
degree of access available through school gymnasiums, geographic distribution, and whether
there are other 'drivers' of indoor facility construction (notably indoor pools and/or arenas).
Population -based service level targets are considered to a lesser intent, with the Community
Services Department Strategic Plan (2008) recommending a general target of one gymnasium per
50,000 population.
Monteith Brown Planning Consultants with TRA & MJMA I Page 38
No. of
Municipality
Population
Gymnasiums
Service Level
Ajax
121,900
2
60,950
Pickering
95,800
1
95,800
Oshawa
160,900
2
80,450
Whitby
133,400
1
133,400
Average
128,000
Clarington
95,300
1.25
76,240
Note: South Courtice Arena gymnasium is undersized and considered as 0.25 gyms
Utilization
Use of Clarington's gymnasiums is growing with more than 7,400 hours booked in 2014,
representing a 50% increase since 2010 (+2,500 hours). A review of gymnasium schedules
indicates that gymnasium usage at the Newcastle and South Courtice locations are very popular
during the evenings and weekends, with room to accommodate additional usage during the
daytime hours. Approximately two-thirds of booked hours are attributable to the more desirable
gym space in Newcastle despite it drawing from a smaller population base at present (the facility
was designed to accommodate long-term population growth of Newcastle and area which should
increase utilization of this facility over time). Increased focus on older adult (including the popular
pickleball activity), fitness, and pre-school programs should also improve utilization in both gyms.
In recent years, rentals have generally levelled off at the South Courtice Arena gymnasium for a
number of reasons. In order to generate increased usage, the Municipality has considerably
increased the number of group fitness programs delivered within that space. This has offset
decreasing rentals and made good use of a space that is otherwise restricted in its ability to
accommodate traditional gymnasium activities (i.e. despite diminishing rentals, overall usage of
the space is generally being maintained).
Facility Needs Assessment
The decision to add municipal gymnasiums is based upon a number of factors, most notably the
degree of access available through school gymnasiums, geographic distribution, and whether
there are other 'drivers' of indoor facility construction (notably indoor pools and/or arenas).
Population -based service level targets are considered to a lesser intent, with the Community
Services Department Strategic Plan (2008) recommending a general target of one gymnasium per
50,000 population.
Monteith Brown Planning Consultants with TRA & MJMA I Page 38
Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
Year
2016
2026
2031
Projected Population
97,100
123,900
140,400
Number of Gymnasiums Required
1.9
2.5
2.8
(based on 1 gym per 50,000 population)
Gymnasium Deficit
(based on a supply of 1.25 gyms*)
0.65
1.25
1.55
* South Courtice Arena is considered to provide the equivalent of 0.25 gyms due to its small size
A new gymnasium should be constructed during the planning period of this Strategy based upon
the fact that the Municipality's population is expected to add an additional 50,000 residents by
2031. Furthermore, there may be additional program demands for gym space arising from the
Municipality's ongoing development and delivery of older adult programming as current
generation of older adults demonstrate substantial interest in participating in active recreational
pursuits such as pickleball.
With Bowmanville not having access to a municipally operated gymnasium and home to the
largest concentration of residents, a new gym in this community is a logical choice. The
Bowmanville Indoor Soccer Facility is the preferred site for a gymnasium through a first phase
expansion. Doing so would result in a municipal gymnasium being located in each of the three
settlement areas and reduce Bowmanville's reliance on school gymnasiums. The expanded use of
schools model, such as Whitby's community school partnership, has been explored by recreation
staff but to date challenges with cost, regular access and numerous cancellations due to school-
based activities has limited the Municipality's success to date.
Given the limited functionality of the South Courtice Arena's small gym, the Municipality should
expand that space to a full size gymnasium. Alternatively, the Municipality could retain and
convert the small gym into a group fitness studio (given the current fitness oriented programming
of the space) while constructing a new full size gymnasium. Doing so would allow the Municipality
to deliver a broader range of programming to Courtice residents as that community grows over
time. Note that addition of a full gym here is likely only possible if the Municipality develops the
recommended twin pad arena in Newcastle (i.e. a gymnasium would not likely fit at the South
Courtice Arena if also developing new ice pads there).
Recommended Gymnasium Development Scenario
1. Provided that the Bowmanville Indoor Soccer Facility is selected as the future site for a
twin pad arena and/or indoor aquatics centre expansion, integration of a full size
gymnasium should be pursued as part of the first phase expansion so long as there is
sufficient space available onsite.
2. Convert the existing small gymnasium at the South Courtice Arena into a group fitness
studio and construct a full size gymnasium at this facility through an addition to the
building. This course of action is appropriate so long as this site is not chosen for a new
twin pad arena (see Section 4.3).
Monteith Brown Planning Consultants with TRA & MJMA I Page 39
Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
4.6 Fitness Space
Supply
The Courtice Community Complex contains a full service, equipment -based fitness centre and
group fitness studio that achieves many cross -programming benefits through co -location with
the leisure pool, whirlpool and sauna, and change rooms (as well as, the library and multi-purpose
space to a certain extent). In addition to the municipal fitness centre, there are a number of private
fitness providers operating in Clarington including Goodlife Fitness and Curves.
The Municipality also operates two squash courts at the Alan Strike Aquatic & Squash Centre and
facilitates indoor walking through its 'Clarington Walks' initiative whereby certain community
centres assign specific walking routes (e.g. around the Bowmanville indoor turf field, Newcastle
gymnasium and walking the halls of the Courtice Community Complex, Garnet Rickard Complex,
and South Courtice Arena). Squash and indoor walking are considered as part of the fitness
portfolio.
Planning Context
Access to affordable fitness activities has never been more important as mounting evidence
reveals increased rates of physical inactivity and obesity. In addition to traditional weight and
aerobics training, activities centering upon active living and wellness are the fastest growing
segments in the fitness industry spanning health -based and specialized programs such as yoga,
Pilates, Zumba, athletic training, physiotherapy, personal training, and more.
While many municipalities offer some level of studio -based active living programs, not all provide
weight -training equipment due to the cost of entry/operation and competition with the private
sector. The Public Information Centres revealed a desire for fitness centres at Clarington's
recreation facilities. While suggestions were received to expand and enhance the fitness centre at
the Courtice Community Complex, requests were made for similarly equipped fitness centres at
the Newcastle & District Recreation Complex, Darlington Sports Centre, and the Alan Strike
Aquatic & Squash Centre. It was suggested that future fitness centres should be equipment -based
with access to active living/group fitness studio space and contain indoor walking tracks.
Table 6: Benchmarked Municipal Fitness Centres
Municipality
Population
No. of Fitness
Service Level
Centres
Ajax
121,900
2
60,950
Pickering
95,800
1
95,800
Oshawa
160,900
3
53,633
Whitby
133,400
2
66,700
Average
128,000
2
69,271
Clarington
95,300
1
95,300
Monteith Brown Planning Consultants with TRA & MJMA I Page 40
Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
Clarington provides a service level of one equipment -based fitness centre per 95,300 residents,
which is one of the lowest levels of service compared to benchmark communities in southern
Durham Region. As with other benchmark comparisons, cautious interpretation is required
depending upon a municipality's philosophy as it relates to competing with the private sector, the
size of the fitness market in question, and the extent to which other municipal facilities exist where
equipment -based fitness is provided to enhance the experience found within.
Utilization
Over 5,100 memberships were collectively sold in 2014 for the 'Fitness Plus', 'Fitness Basic' and
'Group Fitness' packages, a considerable increase from the 3,600 memberships sold in 2010. This
growth was the result of the Fitness Basic package, which was introduced in 2014 to offer members
an affordable introductory package to fitness. Since this package was offered, the Municipality
has observed considerable uptake in Fitness Basic memberships, which offset a decline in Fitness
Plus memberships. This may suggest that existing and new fitness members are looking for more
affordable fitness opportunities in Clarington.
A review of other fitness units shows a substantial increase in the number of persons participating
in Clarington Walks at the Bowmanville Indoor Soccer Facility (over 7,000 in total) while squash
court usage also appear to be trending upwards driven largely through daily passes.
Facility Needs Assessment
Full Service Fitness Centres
Following the development of the Courtice Community Complex's full-service fitness centre, the
Municipal Council in 2003 resolved that the Municipality "will not enter into direct competition with
the local fitness industry in new facility construction. ,6 In the years that have passed since then, the
Courtice Community Complex has benefitted considerably from co -locating its fitness centre with
complementary indoor aquatics and group fitness spaces, and the fitness centre could experience
even greater usage with the establishment of dedicated older adult space there. Further, a number
of comments received through the consultations expressed disappointment that a fitness centre
was not included as part of the Newcastle & District Recreation Complex largely as expectations
for multi -use, 'one-stop shop' facilities have grown over the past fifteen years along with
participation in fitness and active living.
Given the success and longevity of the full-service fitness centre at the Courtice Community
Complex along with public input that highly values the holistic, integrated nature and convenience
of the facility, the Municipality should re -assess its role in operating equipment -based fitness
centres. Such a facility would lend itself well within the proposed reconfiguration of the
Bowmanville Indoor Soccer Facility into a multi-purpose community centre where the indoor
aquatics centre, gymnasium and arena create logical synergies. Similarly, the Newcastle & District
Recreation Complex should contemplate a smaller -scale fitness space or group fitness studio
given programming synergies with its pool and gymnasium. Prior to doing so, however, any
decision to replicate the Courtice Community Complex fitness model in other parts of the
6 Municipality of Clarington Council Resolution C-286-03. May 12, 2003.
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Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
community would require the Municipality to revisit Resolution C-286-03 set forth by the previous
Council.
However, the decision to replicate and/or build upon the Courtice model is not one that is
necessarily borne out through facility assessments employed through this Facilities Strategy.
Private sector fitness clubs tend to have greater flexibility in their operating model than a
municipality as it pertains to staffing, ability to regularly replace equipment, and fund capital
upgrades to their facilities. For example, the private sector often has lower staffing costs, and they
do not have to go through Council deliberations and annual budget approvals to fund their capital
projects thereby allowing them to more quickly respond to emerging trends. Any expansion of
equipment -based fitness on the part of the Municipality is viewed from the perspective of creating
a holistic, integrated experience for wellness through the co -location of synergistic facility
components (and to a lesser extent, modest revenue potential to subsidize cost -recovery for an
aquatic centre and gymnasium that operate on a net cost basis).
Of note, the Municipality has recently converted existing space at the Courtice Community
Complex that will provide additional space for a wide variety of recreation programs, including
fitness classes. With the growing popularity for group fitness, additional studios would be
considered through the Bowmanville Indoor Soccer Facility expansion and/or a future expansion
to the Newcastle & District Recreation Complex to allow functional cross -programming
opportunities with their respective aquatics and fitness components.
Indoor Walking & Running Tracks
Surveys conducted across the country indicate that walking, jogging and hiking for leisure are
often the most popular recreational activity pursued by individuals due to their self -structured
nature and the ability of most of the population to undertake this form of exercise. Sport
organizations, particularly non -winter sports, also benefit from indoor walking or running tracks
for cardiovascular conditioning during the off-season. Tracks provide safe walking opportunities
during periods of inclement weather, responding well to for older adults and other age groups.
Many modern community centres templates incorporate indoor walking tracks typically encircling
an arena, gymnasium, indoor turf field or are integrated with circulation areas (e.g. walkways in
common areas, fitness centres, etc.). The tracks are often between two and three lanes with a
rubberized surface, the length of which is dependent upon design and use intended (e.g. a running
track may be 200 metres with banked corners whereas a track geared to walking may be smaller).
Many communities with indoor tracks do not intend for them to recover their costs (a nominal
charge, if any at all, may be applied) as the steady volume of use is viewed as achieving the intent
of promoting physical activity while increasing the foot traffic of a community centre as a whole.
In the absence of its own indoor walking track, the Municipality encourages residents to utilize
many of their indoor recreation facilities through the 'Clarington Walks' program that provides
residents with year round indoor walking during designated hours through corridors, arena floors,
gymnasiums, and at the indoor soccer field.
There is merit in developing an indoor track as part of the proposed expansion to the Bowmanville
Indoor Soccer Facility with the recommended gymnasium, arena and/or fitness centre
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Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
components having the potential to integrate a track. There is also demonstrated demand for this
activity as evidenced by over 7,000 visits to walk around the existing indoor turf field, and a track
may afford a higher quality experience than presently offered (depending upon structural
conditions, a track could also be contemplated around the indoor field). Although there is a capital
cost to be incurred with developing a new indoor track, the operational impacts are fairly nominal
in the context of the entire community centre and the track does not have to increase the physical
footprint of the facility if elevated and encircling an ice rink or gymnasium. Longer-term, a track
should also be considered for integration should at the time when the Newcastle & District
Recreation Complex is expanded and would complement the direction to integrate a fitness space
at that location as well.
In order to maximize its usage potential, a future track(s) should be oriented to sport users as well
as casual recreational walkers or joggers, thereby complementing the community -level recreation
activities in a multi -use experiential setting. Optimally at least one future track should be a
minimum of three lanes (to most effectively allow for simultaneous casual and higher intensity
users) with a utilitarian surface that is durable enough to withstand broad use (e.g. those pushing
children in strollers) while providing sufficient cushioning to mitigate impact on the body's joints.
Squash Courts
Provision of squash courts is not a norm among Ontario municipalities since the private sector
(notably racquet and athletic clubs) has historically addressed demands. However, downward
participation trends in squash since the mid-1990s and recent growth in group fitness segment
has led many fitness providers to rethink inclusion of squash facilities based on the economics of
space allocation as they can attract more users (and therefore more revenue) on a square foot
basis for group exercise compared to a squash court.
With respect to additional squash courts, municipal provision is based upon corporate philosophy
rather than a generally accepted level of service and thus there are no provisioning standards that
guide service levels. Instead, the Municipality must confirm whether it wants to remove, retain or
expand its squash operations based upon factors such as market demand (e.g. membership and
participation levels), alignment with other complementary facility components (e.g. fitness
services), capital investment and reinvestment costs, and ongoing operating costs (e.g. staffing
and programming). The Municipality will also need to consider opportunity costs of foregone
revenue and potential inability to meet needs for higher demand activities such as group fitness
— for example, a group fitness class could have 40 participants in an hour whereas two squash
courts could only accommodate 6 participants in the same amount of space.
The preferred strategy is that the Municipality retain the Alan Strike Aquatic & Squash Centre
courts given there is an established level of use and the space itself would not be ideal to be
repurposed for any need identified in this Facilities Strategy. Retention of the squash courts is
based upon market support and cost-effective service delivery. Provision of additional squash
courts is not recommended at present time in the absence of metrics that would suggest
expansion into this area would represent a sustainable or cost-effective investment on the part of
the Municipality. Demand for additional courts was not identified during the consultation process.
Monteith Brown Planning Consultants with TRA & MJMA I Page 43
Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
Summary of Fitness Space Directions
Revisit the Municipality of Clarington Council Resolution C-286-03 to restrict its role in
providing new full-service fitness centres through a review of its corporate philosophies,
desired core service mandate, and the desire to compete with the private sector fitness
market. If the outcome of this review results in a decision to expand the Municipality's
fitness presence, full-service fitness centres should be considered as part of future
gymnasium, arena and/or indoor aquatics centre developments/redevelopments implying
that fitness space should be integrated at the time when the Bowmanville Indoor Soccer
Facility and the Newcastle & District Recreation Complex are expanded.
2. Indoor walking tracks should be considered as part of future arena, gymnasium and/or
fitness centre developments/redevelopments implying that a walking track should be
considered at the time when the Bowmanville Indoor Soccer Facility and the Newcastle &
District Recreation Complex are expanded.
4.7 Multi -Purpose Spaces
Supply
A total of 19 multi-purpose spaces that are integrated within various Municipal recreation
facilities, which are available for rent for a variety of functions and are used to support municipal
program delivery. Spaces come in a range of types and sizes that can be configured to suit user
needs, and some are equipped with amenities (including, but not limited to, kitchens, storage,
stage, viewing areas, etc.).
The Municipality also owns eleven stand-alone community halls, each of which are independently
operated by hall boards. As per the project Terms of References, these board -run community halls
are not included as part of this Facilities Strategy.
Planning Context
Historically, community spaces were provided as small single -purpose facilities for passive
activities such as social gatherings, banquets, and meetings. Co -locating these types of
community spaces with complementary facilities has become the norm in the provision of modern
recreation facilities, thus functioning as multi-purpose spaces that accommodate a broader range
of uses. These multi-purpose spaces can enhance cross -programming opportunities for public
and private functions and achieve economies of scale in facility construction, maintenance, and/or
management. Given the benefits afforded by co -locating multi-purpose spaces within larger
recreation facilities, the provision of new stand-alone community halls is generally discouraged.
Clarington's supply of multi-purpose spaces translates into a supply of one multi-purpose space
per 4,538 residents, which is the highest level of service compared to benchmark municipalities.
This comparison should be interpreted cautiously, however, given that the provision of this facility
type is often pursued only as a result of new recreation centre construction, along with the varying
sizes and diverse functions of these spaces.
Monteith Brown Planning Consultants with TRA & MJMA I Page 44
Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
Table 7: Benchmarked Municipal Multi -Purpose Spaces
Municipality
Population
No. of Multi-
Service Level
Purpose Spaces
Ajax
121,900
15
8,127
Pickering
95,800
17
5,635
Oshawa
160,900
28
5,746
Whitby
133,400
19
7,021
Average
128,000
20
6,632
Clarington
95,300
195,015
Note: Excludes stand-alone community halls.
Utilization
A review of booking data reveals that multi -use program spaces are well used. Between 2010 and
2014, multi-purpose room bookings collectively increased by 810 hours (+3%) to reach 25,700
hours .7 Anecdotal observations from Municipal staff indicate that use of Clarington's multi-
purpose space has been strong over the past five years, particularly during the evening hours.
Some of the most frequently used facilities for 2014 are identified below:
x The Garnet Rickard B. Recreation Complex banquet hall was booked over 5,300 hours, an
increase of over 560 hours (+12%) compared to 2010.
x Program Room #1, #2 and #3 at the Newcastle District Recreation Complex were
collectively booked for 3,500 hours, representing an increase of nearly 900 hours (+35%)
from 2010.
x The South Courtice Arena meeting room was booked for 1,500 hours, declining by more
than 400 hours (-22%) from 2010.
Lower levels of utilization occur during daytime hours which is to be expected outside of prime
times and less of a concern given that multi -use rooms are provided as complementary spaces.
Additionally, some existing multi -use spaces are not conducive to user groups' needs such as the
South Courtice Arena Upper Viewing Area. Nevertheless, it is anticipated that daytime usage will
be bolstered with the ongoing development of municipally -operated fitness and older adult
programs.
Facility Needs Assessment
The Municipality's integrated multi-purpose rooms achieve strong geographic distribution and
provide rental and programming opportunities to most areas in Clarington. The distribution of
multi-purpose rooms is further enhanced by the presence of the Municipality's stand-alone
Total room hours include a multiplier applied to rooms that are divisible into multiple rooms such as the
Rickard Banquet Hall and Newcastle & District Recreation Complex Program Rooms 2 and 3 (e.g. the
banquet hall can accommodate two hours of bookings in one hour time slot since it can be split in two).
Accordingly, the number of hours actually booked is less than shown.
Monteith Brown Planning Consultants with TRA & MJMA I Page 45
Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
community halls and library spaces. As a result, the supply of community program space is
expected to be sufficient for the foreseeable future.
That being said, if the Municipality proceeds with an expansion of the Bowmanville Indoor Soccer
Facility, the addition of some multi-purpose program space should be provided as complementary
spaces on the basis that: a) it would be a low cost addition from both a capital and operating
perspective; b) the current multi-purpose room at that facility is generally suited to smaller
meetings; and c) new multi-purpose space could facilitate some outreach programming such as
arts and cultural use, group fitness, complement older adult and youth oriented activities, and
rental opportunities to complement the facility's overall vision as a multi -use community hub.
Several factors should be considered when developing new multi-purpose rooms in order to
ensure that these spaces are suitable to user needs. This may include, but not be limited to, layout
and size, sinks and counter space, flooring type, storage, seating, electronic equipment, and access
to other facility components.
Recommended Multi -Purpose Space Development Scenario
1. Provided that the Bowmanville Indoor Soccer Facility is selected as the future site for an
gymnasium, indoor aquatic centre and/or twin pad arena expansion, integration of multi-
purpose program and meeting space should be pursued as part of the expansion so long
as there is sufficient space available onsite.
4.8 Youth Spaces
Supply
The Municipality does not operate dedicated youth space, instead delivering youth -focused
programming through indoor and outdoor recreation space such as parks, multi-purpose rooms,
gymnasiums, arenas and aquatic centres, etc. The Municipality also contributes annual funding
towards the Firehouse Youth Centre in Bowmanville which is operated by the John Howard Society
of Durham Region. The Firehouse provides Bowmanville youth with a convenient social space that
is walkable and located near the Clarington Public Library main branch and a number of other
amenities; however, the ability of youth residing outside of Bowmanville to access this facility is
challenging due to the large geographic area of the Municipality, limited public transportation
options, and the fact that many youth do not have access to their own vehicle.
Additionally, the recent renovation of the Clarington Public Library branch at the Courtice
Community Complex contains many components oriented to youth interests such as a teen area,
video and sound editing studios. The Library's provision of this space is particularly beneficial to
youth given the proximity to the adjacent Courtice North Public School and Courtice Secondary
School as well as the skateboard park.
Planning Context
Youth -oriented space has continued to be a growing segment in municipal facility provision.
Communities have recognized the need to provide this age group with responsive, engaging, and
healthy opportunities, as well as a safe and convenient location for participating in such activities.
Research has also revealed that there is a growing preference among youth for unstructured
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Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
activities compared to organized sports, further supporting the need for adequate facility space.
As a result, these factors have prompted the emergence of drop-in youth centres or community
spaces that support a broad range of pursuits, which fosters positive reinforcement and
engagement to combat common concerns surrounding physical and mental health.
Generally speaking, the public consultation process received requests for a dedicated youth space.
Given that youth generally do not have access to a vehicle, participants indicated that a youth
space should be provided in a convenient location within proximity to schools, residential areas,
and along transit. More youth programming such as shinny hockey and fitness opportunities was
also requested.
Benchmarked municipalities provide a range of service levels; however, these figures should be
interpreted with caution as community-based providers often operate youth centres (particularly
serving at -risk youth), while some municipalities choose to focus their internal youth -serving
programs through multi -use rooms, gymnasiums, and other municipal facilities.
Table 8: Benchmarked Municipal Youth Spaces (Dedicated)
Municipality
Youth
No. of Youth
Service Level
Population
Spaces
Ajax
18,880
3
6,293
Pickering
14,496
2
7,248
Oshawa
20,133
2
10,067
Whitby
20,399
1
20,399
Average
18,477
2
11,002
Clarington
14,687
1
14,687
Note: Privately -operated youth spaces are excluded from the above benchmark table except for Clarington
where the privately -operated Firehouse Youth Centre in Bowmanville receives municipal funding
Based on age -cohort projections, it is estimated that there will be nearly 15,000 youth residing in
Clarington by 2031, representing a growth of 13% from the 2011 Census period.' These
projections anticipate that Bowmanville, where the youth population is expected to grow by 40%
(+2,100 youth) will have as many youth as the other areas combined. Newcastle's youth
population is expected to double from current levels to 2,200 persons in 2031, while Courtice and
the rural areas are expected to decline over this period by 13% and 39% (500 and 1,000 persons),
respectively.
8 Hemson Consulting, Memorandum to the Municipality of Clarington Re: Clarington Community Forecast
Update 2013. January 25, 2013.
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Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
Table 9: Youth Population Distribution by Settlement Area, 2011, 2016, and 2031
Year
2011
2021
2031
Change(%)
Bowmanville
5,310
6,290
7,440
40%
Courtice
4,160
3,710
3,640
-13%
Newcastle
1,020
1,640
2,200
116%
Rural
Total
2,630
13,120
1,540
:0
1,610
14,890
-39%
c•
Utilization
Clarington offers several registered and drop-in recreational programs spanning areas including
sports, creative and fine arts, cooking, etc. Between 2010 and 2014, registrations in youth
programs has been trending downwards while fill rates have fluctuated generally between 62%
and 66%. By contrast, participation in drop-in recreational programs increased during the same
time period, suggesting that Clarington youth desire unstructured and drop-in activities.
Facility Needs Assessment
There are no generally accepted provision levels for the development of youth space. Instead,
dedicated youth space (whether through stand-alone or integrated models) are constructed
based on need, ability to be co -located with other complementary facilities, and potential for
cross -programming opportunities.
Over the next fifteen years, it is anticipated that youth in Bowmanville and Courtice will be
adequately serviced using the existing complement of municipal and third party recreational
spaces. For example, the proposed gymnasium at the Bowmanville Indoor Soccer Facility along
with the Firehouse should be sufficient to deliver a broad range of programming and the same
can be said between the Courtice Community Complex and Library and South Courtice Arena.
Newcastle would benefit from space, however, the long-range youth population of 2,200 persons
does not necessarily rationalize the need for dedicated space. Instead, the Municipality should
consider the addition of multi-purpose space through which priority of use is assigned to youth
programming but remains flexible enough to accommodate other municipal programming and
community rental opportunities. However, additional consultations will be required with youth
residing in that community to determine what components they would like to see and whether
the ultimate design is best accommodated through dedicated or non -dedicated space.
Servicing the rural areas could also be done on an outreach basis, but would likely make the most
amount of sense at board -run arena in Orono as well as the board -run community halls. However,
these facilities fall outside of the scope of this Facilities Strategy and thus the Municipality would
need to explore such options through subsequent discussions with the boards.
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Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
Recommended Youth Space Development Scenario
In the event that the Municipality undertakes an expansion(s) to the Bowmanville Indoor
Soccer Facility and/or Newcastle & District Recreation Complex through integration of an
arena and/or fitness centre, it is recommended that this expansion(s) include multi-
purpose space where priority is assigned to youth -oriented programming. At a minimum,
consideration should be given to designing the space conducive to socialization, individual
or group study, multi -media components, etc. Such space should be designed in
consultation with youth residing in the respective settlement areas and other youth -
focused service providers (e.g. John Howard Society, Clarington Public Library, etc.), and
should confirm whether the space in fact is best programmed on a priority basis or if it
should be dedicated space.
4.9 Older Adult Space
Supply
As a result of the 2015 Clarington Older Adult Strategy, the provision of older adult opportunities
are provided by: 1) the Bowmanville Older Adult Association (B.O.A.A.) emphasizing social,
physical, educational, and informative programs through the Beech Centre; and 2) through the
Municipality of Clarington at other locations such as the Courtice Community Complex and the
Newcastle & District Recreation Complex.
Planning Context
Older adult spaces provide venues for older adults and seniors to gather, share common interests,
hold events and programs, and organize games. The need for these spaces is becoming more
important as Clarington's population continues to age, although research has found that only
about 10% of Ontario's older adult population make use of these services (the ratio in Clarington
is quite similar). Nevertheless, older adult spaces function as an important part of the health care
and recreation sectors due to their physical and social benefits.
Older adults are increasingly remaining active longer in life than past generations, which has
caused a shift in the type and intensity of recreation activities pursued by different age cohorts
within this segment of the population. For example, research has revealed that baby boomers are
more active and fit than those that came before them. This will continue to be of interest as they
age, and is expected to result in an increase in drop-in, fitness, and education activities, as well as
specialized programs tailored to niche interests. There will also be older adults that are interested
in traditional pursuits (e.g., cards, tea, bingo, dancing, etc.).
The public consultation process revealed that residents enjoy a variety of programs across the
Municipality; however, requests were received for more programs such as dance, fitness,
traditional older adult and senior programs that emphasize social interaction. No comments were
received with respect to the provision of older adult spaces likely due to the recent and extensive
consultation program that was implemented as part of the Clarington Older Adult Strategy.
As noted above, in addition to the public consultation sessions held for this Facilities Strategy,
extensive consultation was conducted for the Older Adult Strategy in 2015 with Clarington's older
Monteith Brown Planning Consultants with TRA & MJMA I Page 49
Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
adults, including the Clarington Older Adult Centre Board and its members. Input was collected
through an online survey, public open houses, and interviews with key stakeholders. The
consultation process found that the Courtice Community Complex was one of the most popular
multi -use recreation facilities in Clarington, followed by the Newcastle & District Recreation
Complex and the Alan Strike Aquatic & Squash Centre. The Bowmanville Indoor Soccer Facility
was also used, to a lesser extent. Overall, older adults and seniors generally enjoyed the activities
and programs offered at these facilities as not all opportunities are available at the Beech Centre.
Regardless of the activities that interest Clarington's older adult population, this growing
population segment will continue to drive the need for flexible older adult space that can
accommodate a broad range of interests. To respond to an evolving and increasingly complex
older adult needs, many communities are shifting away from stand-alone seniors' facilities
towards the provision of integrated spaces within multi -use community centres. Examples of both
facility types can be found in Clarington.
Facility Needs Assessment
Since the completion of the Older Adult Strategy, much has change with respect to the provision
of facility space and recreation programs for older adults. In 2015, the Municipality hired an Older
Adult Co -Ordinator and Older Adult Programmer who are responsible for overseeing program
development, implementation, and evaluation and advancement of the Older Adult Strategy.
Beginning in 2016, the Community Services Department's mandate was expanded to include the
provision of community -wide older adult recreation opportunities. A broad range of active older
adult programming is currently offered through the Municipality such as fitness, workshops,
educational lessons, and more, at each indoor recreation facility in Clarington.
With the banquet hall at the Courtice Community Complex being repurposed to a municipally -
operated older adult space, the community now has access to dedicated older adult space. At the
time when the Newcastle & District Recreation Complex is expanded to include a twin pad arena
and/or fitness centre (as per earlier assessments contained in this Facilities Strategy), inclusion of
municipally -operated older adult space should be provided through that expansion project. This
should also be the case for a new multi-purpose community centre in Bowmanville (preferably at
the Bowmanville Indoor Soccer Facility). Future older adult space should be design adequately to
support active recreation opportunities for older adults and complementing other facility
components.
Recommended Older Adult Space Development Scenario
1. Future older adult space should be designed adequately to support active recreation
opportunities for older adults, while complementing other facility components (e.g.,
gymnasium, fitness centre, walking track etc.), when the Bowmanville Indoor Soccer Facility
and the Newcastle & District Recreation Complex undergo a major expansion or renewal.
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4.10 Other Indoor Recreation Facility Needs
The Municipality of Clarington may be pressed for additional indoor recreation facilities that are
not currently of sufficient demand to warrant a specific recommendation in this Facilities Strategy.
However, the Municipality should be prepared to appropriately respond to future requests. These
demands may arise for existing activities / facilities or for those that evolve according to future
trends and preferences.
When requests are brought forward for investment in non-traditional, emerging and/or non-core
municipal services, the Municipality should evaluate the need for these pursuits on a case-by-case
basis. This should involve an examination into (but not be limited to):
x local/regional/provincial trends pertaining to usage and popularity of the activity/facility;
x examples of delivery models in other municipalities;
x local demand for the activity / facility;
x the ability of existing municipal facilities to accommodate the new service;
x the feasibility for the Municipality to reasonably provide the service / facility as a core
service and in a cost-effective manner;
x the willingness and ability of the requesting organization to provide the service / facility
if provided with appropriate municipal supports.
Recommended Development Scenario for Other or Emerging Facilities
Requests for facilities presently not part of the Municipality of Clarington's core indoor recreation
facility portfolio should be evaluated on a case-by-case basis, after first considering the
Municipality's role in providing the facility in relation to quantified market demand and cost-
effectiveness of such facilities, while also identifying potential strategies to address long-term
need for such requests should a sufficient level of demand be expressed. However based on the
scope of the recommendations identified in this report, this should remain the focus for the
Municipality over the term of the strategy period.
Monteith Brown Planning Consultants with TRA & MJMA I Page 51
Municipality of Clarington
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Section 5. Implementation of Expansion & Redevelopment Options
Assessments contained in Section 4 have resulted in a number of recommendations, of which
Figure 6 illustrates the proposed facility development timeline. The details and costs of each
initiative are outlined in the pages that follow. The proposed timeline is contingent upon many
factors including the actual level of population growth realized over the next fifteen years in
relation to the forecasts used as the basis for this Strategy, participation levels and recreational
preferences in the future, the financial capacity of the Municipality to undertake such works,
competing priorities and pressures for other municipal services, life expectancy of existing
facilities, etc.
Figure 6: Proposed Facility Development Schedule
Short -Term
Design - Bowmanville Indoor
Soccer Phase 1 Expansion
Twin Pad Arena*
Gymnasium
Fitness/ Wellness Centre
Indoor Walking Track
Youth & Older Adult Space
Administration Offices
0
Medium -Term
Design - Newcastle &
District Recreation Complex
Phase 1 Expansion
Fitness / Wellness Centre
Youth & Older Adult Space
0
20172019 2021
_ 'I' 2021
2018 2020
Long -Term
Design — Courtice Community
Complex Expansion
New Teaching Pool
Design - Newcastle & District
Recreation Complex Phase 2
Expansion
Twin Pad Arena**
Indoor Walking Track
2023 2025 2027 2029 2031
2022 2024 2026 2028 2030
0
Design - Bowmanville Indoor
Soccer Phase 2 Expansion:
to Indoor Aquatic Centre
Design - South Courtice Arena Expansion:
Gymnasium
* A twin pad arena in Bowmanville is recommended based on the estimated hours being contracted by
minor sport users in surrounding municipalities, expansion of adult hockey opportunities as well as the
expansion of recreational programs and services provided by the Municipality. Construction would
commence after the Municipality confirms sufficient ice -related demand exists based on market
conditions at that future time.
** A twin pad arena is recommended in Newcastle subject to the results of an arena needs assessment in
2023.
Monteith Brown Planning Consultants with TRA & MJMA I Page 52
Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
5.1 Costing Assumptions
Capital Cost Estimates
Capital costs of construction articulated in this section are expressed in 2016 dollars, and escalated
by 3.5% per annum to illustrate potential inflationary pressures associated with future
development. It bears noting that construction costs can vary significantly due to instability of
material costs, labour costs, and other economic factors. The capital budgets presented herein are
based on a very preliminary concepts only and should be considered as a Class D budget.
The cost estimates exclude land acquisition, HST, legal fees, project management costs,
environmental remediation, development charges (if applicable), and capital replacement. The
capital construction costs also exclude energy efficiency or 'green building' certifications, which
are accredited programs that recognize green building practices in areas such as energy
conservation and demand management. Should the Municipality decide to pursue certification or
accreditation in sustainable practices, the prevailing philosophy is that these upgrades will
increase the capital cost, but reduce the facility's environmental impact and result in incremental
operating cost savings due to energy efficiencies.
Operating Budget Impacts
It is important for the Municipality of Clarington to not only plan for the capital costs of the
respective recreation facility expansions and renovations but to understand the operating budget
implications that will accompany the facility expansions once they are in operation. Each of the
facilities recommended in this plan have been assessed as to their operating impacts including
achievable revenue potential and expenditures that are reflective of the current departmental
operating model. It should be noted that all operating expenditures and costs have been stated
in 2016 dollars and no inflationary estimates are offered as often costs can change significantly
such as utilities and staffing costs as well as the introduction of any new legislative requirements.
Each facility expansion recommendation offers a summary of the additional costs to the facility
and an overall operating budget impact to the existing operational budget. Once the facility
expansions are approved for implementation by Council, staff will refine this data to ensure that
it is reflective of any changes in operations and the service delivery model. This information is
intended to provide Council and the public with a high order of magnitude of additional operating
costs for the recommended facility expansions in the Facilities Strategy.
The following information is provided for each recommended facility expansion at the end of each
sub -section from 5.2 to 5.5, identifies the operating budget impacts of the "additional"
recommended space and includes:
x A summary of the facility expansion in square feet and a description of the facility
components; and
x A table that summarizes the additional revenues, expenditures and a net operating budget
impact for the facility expansion.
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Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
Operating Budget Assumptions for all Facility Expansions
In developing the operating budget impacts for the additional costs of the facility expansions, it
is assumed that:
Operating Hours
x Operating hours for pools, gymnasia, fitness/wellness spaces, youth and older adult spaces
and multi -purposes spaces will reflect current operating hours of a seven day a week
operation which are open to the public on average of 15 hours per day; and
x Arenas are projected to operate 15 hours per day on average, 8-9 months per year and
utilize dry ice pads in the summer months for camps, rentals etc.
Revenues
x Current pricing of program and services are included in the revenue projections and reflect
a full year of operation of programs, rental etc. Current usage levels are articulated such
as arenas are budgeted at 90% of prime time use.
Expenditures
x Current operational and program staffing levels are reflected in the operating budget
impacts estimates. Any additional staff needed to address a larger population, new
directions or existing staff deficiencies are not reflected in these budget projections.
x All facility operating expenses and maintenance staff are captured under the full facility
costs and only additional program related revenues and expenses are summarized under
each program areas such as pools, youth, adult, fitness spaces and gymnasia.
x Arena/full-time facility operations staff are included in the arena budget as this is reflective
of the current practice.
x It is estimated that the dry facility maintenance costs per square foot excluding
maintenance/operational staff are $4.55 per square foot per annum for multi-purpose
rooms and $6.79 per square foot for arenas, while wet spaces (pools and pool change
rooms) are calculated at $7.50 per square foot. These operational costs are reflective of
other similar spaces within the Municipality of Clarington. This square foot cost includes
utilities, cleaning and maintenance supplies, minor repairs, chemicals and general
operating expenses (staffing costs are not included). Pools generally cost more to maintain
due to a greater demand on utilities to continually heat the water and air.
Monteith Brown Planning Consultants with TRA & MJMA I Page 54
Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
5.2 Expand Bowmanville Indoor Soccer Facility into a Multi -Use Community
Centre
To meet growth -related needs in the Bowmanville settlement area, a phased two part expansion
is proposed for the Bowmanville Indoor Soccer Facility. The current building and site were
originally designed to allow for a future facility expansion and thus ample space exists to the north
and west of the current building envelope.
The Phase 1 expansion would involve:
x a twin pad arena;
x a full size gymnasium;
x a fitness/wellness centre;
x a dedicated or assigned -priority space for youth;
x a dedicated or assigned -priority space for older adult activities and programs;
x multi-purpose program space(s);
x an indoor walking track; and
x office space for Community Services Department administration (in order to
accommodate the relocation of administrative staff that are currently located at the
Municipal offices, additional space should be considered - this would be coordinated
with any space needs assessments completed by the Municipality in the future).
The Phase 2 expansion would involve:
x a new indoor aquatics centre containing a 25 metre rectangular pool and smaller
separated leisure and/or therapeutic pools (design and specifications should be re-
assessed prior to construction given this action is projected to occur over ten years from
now and preferences may change).
Monteith Brown Planning Consultants with TRA & MJMA I Page 55
Indoor Aquatics Centre Study
- -
Timing: 2028 (Ph.2)
Cost: $30,000
Detailed Architectural Design
Timing: 2018 (Ph. 1) -
Timing: 2029 (Ph. 2)
Facility Development
Timing: 2019 (Ph. 1)
Timing: 2030 (Ph. 2)
Cost: $46.2 million
$18.8 million
Open to Public
Timing: 2020 (Ph.1)
Timing: 2031 (Ph. 2)
Vote: costs auoted in 2016 dollars. timino is estimated and subiect to chance
To meet growth -related needs in the Bowmanville settlement area, a phased two part expansion
is proposed for the Bowmanville Indoor Soccer Facility. The current building and site were
originally designed to allow for a future facility expansion and thus ample space exists to the north
and west of the current building envelope.
The Phase 1 expansion would involve:
x a twin pad arena;
x a full size gymnasium;
x a fitness/wellness centre;
x a dedicated or assigned -priority space for youth;
x a dedicated or assigned -priority space for older adult activities and programs;
x multi-purpose program space(s);
x an indoor walking track; and
x office space for Community Services Department administration (in order to
accommodate the relocation of administrative staff that are currently located at the
Municipal offices, additional space should be considered - this would be coordinated
with any space needs assessments completed by the Municipality in the future).
The Phase 2 expansion would involve:
x a new indoor aquatics centre containing a 25 metre rectangular pool and smaller
separated leisure and/or therapeutic pools (design and specifications should be re-
assessed prior to construction given this action is projected to occur over ten years from
now and preferences may change).
Monteith Brown Planning Consultants with TRA & MJMA I Page 55
Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
Table 10: Estimated Project Development Cost — Bowmanville Indoor Soccer Facility (Phase 1)
Project Sub -Total $44,899,849
Project Contingency (3%) $1,346,995
Grand Total $46,246,845
Assumes Stipulated Sum Tender
Specific exclusions: Land Costs, Legal Costs, Environmental Remediation, Project Management, LEED designation
Monteith Brown Planning Consultants with TRA & MJMA I Page 56
Building Costs
Twin Pad ArenaI=
86,400
220
$19,008,000
2 NHL sized ice pads
New Gymnasium
7,800
$300
$2,340,000
Similar to gym at N.D.R.C.
New Dry Change Rooms
1,500
$325
$487,500
Modest dry change area
Fitness Space
10,000
$350
$3,500,000
Indoor Walking Track
7,000
150
1,050,000
Assuming within arena
Older Adult & Youth Spaces
3,000
$300
$900,000
O.A. @ 3,OOOsf, Youth @ 1,OOOsf
Multi -Purpose Space
1,500
$300
$450,000
Municipal Administration Offices
3,500
300
$1,050,000
Assumes 20 Staff, Reception, etc.
Mechanical and Service
1,500
$250
$375,000
Sub -Total
123,200
$29,460,500
Gross Up Area (10%)
12,320
$319
$3,930,080
Assuming minimal gross -up
Total Building Area
135,520
-
Site Costs
Parking
750
$3,300
$2,475,000
Assumed 2/3 of additional 1,100
Site Servicing
$750,000
Lump sum
Landscaping
$500,000
Lump sum
Total Construction Costs
-
-
$37,115,580
--
Construction Contingency (5%)
$1,855,779
Soft Costs
Architectural Fees (8% construction)
$2,969,246
Based on pre -contingency cost
Other Fees (2% construction - for
survey, geotech., enviro.)
$742,312
Based on pre -contingency cost
HE (4% construction)
$1,484,623
Based on pre -contingency cost
Testing and Inspection
$100,000
Lump sum
A/V
$100,000
Lump sum
Security
$75,000
Lump sum
Communications
$75,000
Lump sum
Utility Fees
$100,000
Lump sum
Total Soft Costs
--
-
$5,646,181
Soft Cost Contingency (5%)
$282,309
Project Sub -Total $44,899,849
Project Contingency (3%) $1,346,995
Grand Total $46,246,845
Assumes Stipulated Sum Tender
Specific exclusions: Land Costs, Legal Costs, Environmental Remediation, Project Management, LEED designation
Monteith Brown Planning Consultants with TRA & MJMA I Page 56
Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
Table 11: Estimated Project Development Cost — Bowmanville Indoor Soccer Facility (Phase 2)
..
Building Costs
New Pools
11,500
525
$6,037,500
Two basins
New Pool Change Rooms
4,150
350
$1,452,500
Pool Mechanical
2,500
290
$725,000
Office/Lifeguards, etc.
1,500
300
$450,000
Sub -Total
23,150
$9,715,000
Gross Up Area (35%)
8,012.5
419
$3,394,948
Gross up for pool program
Total Building Area
31,252
-
-
Site Costs
Parking
350
$3,300
$1,155,000
Assumed 1/3 of additional 1,100
Site Servicing
$100,000
Assumes mostly in Phase 1
Landscaping
$500,000
Lump sum
Total Construction Costs
--
-
$14,864,948
--
Construction Contingency (5%)
743,247
Soft Costs
Architectural Fees (7% construction)
$1,040,546
Based on pre -contingency cost
Other Fees (2% construction - for
survey, geotech., enviro.)
$297,299
Based on pre -contingency cost
HE 0% construction)
$594,598
Based on pre -contingency cost
Testing and Inspection
$150,000
Lump sum
A/V
$150,000
Lump sum
Security & Communications
$200,000
Assuming extension to existing
Utility Fees
$50,000
Assumes mostly in Phase 1
Total Soft Costs
--
-
$2,482,443
Soft Cost Contingency (5%)
$124,122
Project Sub -Total $18,214,761
Project Contingency (3%) $546,443
Grand Total $18,761,204
Assumes Stipulated Sum Tender
Specific exclusions: Land Costs, Legal Costs, Environmental Remediation, Project Management, LEED designation
Monteith Brown Planning Consultants with TRA & MJMA I Page 57
Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
Capital Costs
The total capital cost estimated for the Phase 1 expansion of the Bowmanville Indoor Soccer
Facility is $46,246,845 (quoted in 2016 dollars). Applying an escalation factor of 3.5% per annum
to this figure results in a project cost of approximately $49.5 million provided that construction is
initiated in early 2019.
The capital cost estimate for the Phase 2 expansion is $18,761,204 (2016 dollars). Application of
the 3.5% annual escalation factor significantly increases the estimate to approximately $29.3
million if proceeding with construction early in the year 2030.
For the Phase 2 expansion, a high degree of caution should be exercised in the interpretation of
the escalated cost figure given the considerable uncertainty associated with projecting current
cost estimates between ten and fifteen years into the future.
Operating Implications — Phase 1
The additional space of 135,520 square feet is comprised of a twin pad arena, walking track, dry
spaces including a gymnasium, change rooms, fitness and wellness centre, older adult and youth
spaces as well as support spaces for administration, mechanical and service. The addition will
require 3 full-time facility operators to cover 14 eight hour shifts per week as well as arena
operations staff. Overall, the net impact of the Phase 1 facility expansion will increase the net
facility budget by approximately $375,000 once existing levels of operations and programming
are duplicated and achieved in this facility.
Facility Costs
Program CostsIll
rvlk
N
Twin Pad
Fitness
Net
Additional
Indoor
Older
Facility
Arena
and
Youth
Changes to
Operating
Gym
Walking
Adult
Component
(includes
Wellness
Space
the Facility
Expenses
Track
Space
Operators)
Centre
Budget
Minimal
Revenues
--
(887,900)
(105,000)
(523,000)
--
additional
(44,100)
(1,560,000)
revenue
Included
Expenditures
810,200
595,300
98,800
286,900
44,000
in facility
97,800
1,933,000
costs
Net
810,200
(292,600)
(6,200)
(236,100)
44,000
--
53,700
373,000
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Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
Operating Implications — Phase 2
The square footage expansion in the Phase 2 expansion of Bowmanville Indoor Soccer Facility
includes 31,352 square feet of wet space to include an indoor aquatic centre (pool and change
rooms) and pool office space. The net budget impact on the expanded facility components will
be in the range of $675,000 in 2016 dollars.
Facility Costs
Program Costs
•
Facility
Additional
Indoor Aquatics
Net Changes to
Component
Operating
Centre
the Facility
Expenses
Budget
Revenues
--
(432,000)
(432,000)
Expenditures
235,100
874,200
1,109,300
Net
235,100
442,200
677,300
5.3 Expand the Newcastle & District Recreation Complex
Arena Needs Study _ Timing: 2023 (Ph.2)
Cost: $30,000
Detailed Architectural Design - Timing: 2022 (Ph.1) _Timing: 2026 (Ph.2)
Facility Development _ Timing: 2023 (Ph.1) Timing: 2027 (Ph.2)
Cost: $8.5 million Cost: $29.3 million
Open to Public - Timing: 2024 (Ph.1) Timing: 2028 (Ph.2)
Note: costs quoted in 2016 dollars, timing is estimated and subject to change
The Newcastle & District Recreation Complex is also subject to a phased expansion strategy
whereby fitness and age -centric space is added to complement the existing aquatics centre and
gymnasium, followed by a longer-term expansion to address future ice needs, if sufficient demand
exists, that will be confirmed through a re -assessment of arena requirements in the year 2023. The
latter course of action ensures that the Newcastle settlement area will retain an arena presence
recognizing that the existing Newcastle Arena could possibly approach the end of its useful life at
some point within this Strategy's planning period.
The Newcastle & District Recreation Complex Phase 1 expansion project would involve:
x a fitness/wellness centre;
x a dedicated or assigned -priority space for youth;
Monteith Brown Planning Consultants with TRA & MJMA I Page 59
Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
x a dedicated or assigned -priority space for older adult activities; and
x multi-purpose program space(s).
As part of the 2023 arena needs assessment, the Municipality and Newcastle Arena Board should
review the feasibility of future capital investments in the Newcastle Arena on Caroline Street in
relation to its overall financial and operational sustainability, either as an arena or a repurposed
facility. These discussions will inform decisions relating to eventual replacement of the Newcastle
Arena in tandem with the aforementioned re -confirmation of arena needs in the mid-term.
Factors to be considered in a Phase 2 expansion to include an arena include the fact that the
current building and site were designed to handle a twin pad arena addition and thus ample space
exists onsite. The current building is such that it would allow for parking areas to the north and
south, with a new second facility entrance at the joint between the existing and proposed. The
integration of an indoor walking track should also be considered in the design of the arena
expansion.
Capital Costs
The total capital cost estimated for the Phase 1 expansion of the Newcastle & District Recreation
Complex is $8,486,022 (quoted in 2016 dollars). Applying an escalation factor of 3.5% per annum
to this figure results in a project cost of approximately $10.4 million provided that construction is
initiated early in the year 2023.
The capital cost estimate for the Phase 2 expansion is $29,279,025 (2016 dollars) should the
Municipality proceed with a twin pad arena. Application of the 3.5% annual escalation factor
significantly increases the estimate to approximately $41.3 million if proceeding with construction
early in the year 2027.
For both the Phase 1 and Phase 2 expansion, a high degree of caution should be exercised in the
interpretation of the escalated cost figure given the considerable uncertainty associated with
projecting current cost estimates between ten and fifteen years into the future.
Monteith Brown Planning Consultants with TRA & MJMA I Page 60
Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
Table 12: Estimated Project Development Cost — Newcastle & District Recreation Complex (Phase 1)
Project Sub -Total $8,238,857
Project Contingency (3%) $247,166
Grand Total $8,486,022
Assumes Stipulated Sum Tender
Specific exclusions: Land Costs, Legal Costs, Environmental Remediation, Project Management, LEED designation
Monteith Brown Planning Consultants with TRA & MJMA I Page 61
Building Costs
Fitness Space
10,000
$400
$4,000,000
Youth Space
1,500
$300
$450,000
Assuming renovation to existing
Older Adult Space
3,000
$300
$900,000
Assuming addition to existing
Circulation
0
$300
$0
Covered above
Mechanical and Service
500
$250
$125,000
Assumes 1/3 of 1,500sf
Sub -Total
15,000
$ 5,475,000
Gross Up Area (10%)
1,500
$217
$325,500
Assuming minimal gross -up
Total Building Area
16,500
Site Costs
Parking
85
$3,300
$280,500
Assumed increase based on drawings
and 1/3 of 250 spaces
Site Servicing
$200,000
Lump sum
Landscaping
$300,000
Lump sum
Total Construction Costs
--
$6,581,000
--
Construction Contingency (5%)
$329,050
Soft Costs
Architectural Fees (7% construction)
$460,670
Based on pre -contingency cost
Other Fees (2% construction - for
survey, geotech., enviro.)
$131,620
Based on pre -contingency cost
HE (4% construction)
$263,240
Based on pre -contingency cost
Testing and Inspection
$75,000
Lump sum
AN
$75,000
Lump sum
Security
$100,000
Assuming extension to existing
Communications
$100,000
Assuming extension to existing
Utility Fees
$60,000
Lump sum
Total Soft Costs
--
-
$1,265,530
Soft Cost Contingency (5%)
$63,277
Project Sub -Total $8,238,857
Project Contingency (3%) $247,166
Grand Total $8,486,022
Assumes Stipulated Sum Tender
Specific exclusions: Land Costs, Legal Costs, Environmental Remediation, Project Management, LEED designation
Monteith Brown Planning Consultants with TRA & MJMA I Page 61
Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
Table 13: Estimated Project Development Cost — Newcastle & District Recreation Complex (Phase 2)
Project Sub -Total $28,426,238
Project Contingency (3%) $852,787
Grand Total $29,279,025
Assumes Stipulated Sum Tender
Specific exclusions: Land Costs, Legal Costs, Environmental Remediation, Project Management, LEED designation
Monteith Brown Planning Consultants with TRA & MJMA I Page 62
IBuildringCosts
d
86,400
$220
$19,008,000
Sized to South Courtice Arena
Walking Track
7,000
$150
$1,050,000
Assuming within arena
Mechanical and Service
1,000
$250
$375,000
Assumes 2/3 of 1,500sf
Sub -Total
94,400
$20,308,000
Gross Up Area (10%)
9,440
$217
$2,048,480
Assuming minimal gross -up
Total Building Area
103,840
-
--
Site Costs
Parking
165
$3,300
$544,500
Assumed increase based on drawings
and 2/3 of 250 spaces
Site Servicing
$250,000
Lump sum
Landscaping
$400,000
Lump sum
Total Construction Costs
--
-
$23,550,980
--
Construction Contingency (5%)
$1,177,549
Soft Costs
Architectural Fees (7% construction)
$1,648,569
Based on pre -contingency cost
Other Fees (2% construction - for
survey, geotech., enviro.)
$471,020
Based on pre -contingency cost
HE (4% construction)
$942,039
Based on pre -contingency cost
Testing and Inspection
$100,000
Lump sum
A/V
$100,000
Lump sum
Security
$100,000
Assuming extension to existing
Communications
$100,000
Assuming extension to existing
Utility Fees
$60,000
Lump sum
Total Soft Costs
--
-
$3,521,627
Soft Cost Contingency (5%)
$176,081
Project Sub -Total $28,426,238
Project Contingency (3%) $852,787
Grand Total $29,279,025
Assumes Stipulated Sum Tender
Specific exclusions: Land Costs, Legal Costs, Environmental Remediation, Project Management, LEED designation
Monteith Brown Planning Consultants with TRA & MJMA I Page 62
Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
Operating Implications — Phase 1
The additional space of 16,500 square feet is made up of dry spaces and includes a fitness/wellness
space, youth and older adult spaces with additional square footage for circulation and mechanical
and services areas. The net budget impact on the expanded facility components will be in the
range of $65,000 in 2016 dollars.
Facility Costs
Program Costs
•
Facility
Component
Facility
Operating
Expenses
Fitness and
Wellness
Centre
Youth
Space
Program
Older Adult
Space
Program
Net Changes to
the Facility
Budget
Revenues
--
(523,000)
--
(44,100)
(567,100)
Expenditures
75,100
286,900
44,000
97,800
503,800
Net
75,100
(236,100)
44,000
53,700
(63,300)
Operating Implications — Phase 2
The additional space of 103,840 square feet consists of the twin pad arena and a walking track as
well as facility support spaces. It should be noted that the facility elements are subject to a
feasibility study reflective of the community requirements at the projected year of design. The
operating impacts reflect the additional arena, walking track and ancillary spaces. The net budget
impact on the expanded facility components will be in the range of $375,000 in 2016 dollars.
Facility Costs
Program Costs
• .
go
Facility
Twin Pad Arena
Indoor
Net Changes to
Facility
Operating
(includes
Walking
the Facility
Component
Expenses
Operators)
Track
Budget
Minimal
(887,900)
Revenues
--
(887,900)
additional
revenue
Included in
Expenditures
666,000
595,300
Facility
1,261,300
Costs
Net
666,000
(292,600)
-
373,400
Monteith Brown Planning Consultants with TRA & MJMA I Page 63
Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
5.4 Expand and Renovate the Courtice Community Complex
Detailed Architectural Design Timing: 2024
Facility Reconfiguration and/or Timing: 2025
Expansion Cost: $7.3 million
Open to Public Timing: 2026
Note: costs quoted in 2016 dollars, timing is estimated and subject to change
The Courtice Community Complex indoor aquatics centre should be reconfigured to facilitate a
greater range of learn -to -swim, aquatic fitness and/or aquatic rehabilitation programming. This
would involve reconfiguring and expanding the existing natatorium to the west.
This expansion project is presumed to increase the capacity of this indoor aquatics centre to
accommodate greater use and alleviate short to medium-term needs that arise in subsequent
years, potentially reconciling demands for aquatics programming until the proposed Phase 2
expansion of the Bowmanville Indoor Soccer Facility adds a new indoor aquatics centre. The fitness
area expansion will address the growing demand on the Municipality's existing operation and can
benefit from the economies of scale in construction through the indoor aquatics centre expansion.
Factors to be considered in the expansion include the fact that the property is irregularly shaped
and set back from Courtice Road, with the only available direction for expansion being to the west
where there the soccer pitch currently exists (along with a naturalized area further west). The
access to the proposed future area of construction could be through existing service lanes at the
north and south of the existing building. There is some concern for overland storm drainage in
this area.
Capital Costs
The total capital cost estimated for the Courtice Community expansion and renovation project is
$7,308,892 (quoted in 2016 dollars). Applying an escalation factor of 3.5% per annum to this figure
results in a project cost of approximately $10 million provided that construction is initiated in the
year 2025.
Monteith Brown Planning Consultants with TRA & MJMA I Page 64
Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
Table 14: Estimated Project Development Cost — Courtice Community Complex
re .•
Building Costs
New Leisure Pool
4,450
$575
$2,558,750
Sized to N.D.R.C. indoor pool
Existing Pool Renovation
$150,000
Lump sum
Mechanical and Service
600
$250
$150,000
Sub -Total
5,050
$2,858,750
Gross Up Area (35%)
1,768
$417
$2,100,950
Total Building Area
6,818
--
--
Site Costs
Parking
n/a
n/a
$0
Anticipate no additional parking is required
Site Servicing
$450,000
Lump sum
Landscaping
$200,000
Lump sum
Total Construction Costs
-
$5,609,700
--
Construction Contingency (5%)
$280,485
Soft Costs
Architectural Fees (8.5% construction)
$476,825
Based on pre -contingency cost
Other Fees (2% construction - for
survey, geotech., enviro.)
$112,194
Based on pre -contingency cost
FFE (4% construction)
$224,388
Based on pre -contingency cost
Testing and Inspection
$75,000
Lump sum
A/V
$100,000
Lump sum
Security
$50,000
Assuming extension to existing
Communications
$50,000
Assuming extension to existing
Utility Fees
$60,000
Lump sum
Total Soft Costs
$1,148,407
Soft Cost Contingency (5%)
$57,420
Project Sub -Total $7,096,012
Project Contingency (3%) $212,880
Grand Total IM $7,308,892
Assumes Stipulated Sum Tender
Specific exclusions: Land Costs, Legal Costs, Environmental Remediation, Project Management, LEED designation
Monteith Brown Planning Consultants with TRA & MJMA I Page 65
Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
Operating Implications
The 6,818 square feet of additional facility space includes 4,450 square feet of pool (wet) space
(leisure/teaching pool). Wet and dry spaces are articulated at different operational costs per hour
as there are additional utility costs associated with indoor pool spaces to continually maintain
warmer air and water temperatures. The budget calculations assume that the facility expansion
will have a minimal net impact to the overall facility budget due to revenues being able to recover
80% of the additional operating costs. The net operating budget impact will be an increase of
$34,000.
Facility Costs
Program Costs I
Net Impact
Facility
Additional
Teaching
Enlarged Change
Net Changes to
Component
Operating
pool
Rooms
the Facility
Expenses
Budget
Additional
No associated
Revenues
--
(34500)
,
revenues
(34,500)
Additional
Included in Facility
Expenditures
51,200
17,500
Operating
68,700
Expenditures
Net
51,200
(17,000)
-
34,200
Monteith Brown Planning Consultants with TRA & MJMA I Page 66
Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
5.5 Expand the South Courtice Arena
Detailed Architectural Design Timing: 2027
Cost: $400,000
Facility Expansion Timing: 2028
Cost: $5.8 million
Open to Public Timing: 2029
Note: costs quoted in 2016 dollars, timing is estimated and subject to change
The Indoor Facilities Development Strategy recommends integration of a full size gymnasium at
the South Courtice Arena, achieved in one of two ways:
x Converting the existing small gymnasium into a group fitness studio and constructing a
full size gymnasium at this facility through an addition to the building; or
x Expanding multi-purpose program space.
Capital Costs
The total capital cost estimated for the expansion of the South Courtice Arena is $5,816,067
(quoted in 2016 dollars). Applying an escalation factor of 3.5% per annum to this figure results in
a project cost of approximately $8.5 million provided that construction is initiated early in the year
2028.
Operating Implications
The expansion of the South Courtice Arena to include a gymnasium would entail the addition of
13,162 square feet of dry space. The expansion of the facility to include a gymnasium will not
require additional full-time operators but will require a part-time staff compliment to set up,
supervise, clean and breakdown equipment for events and programs during peak times in the
arena.
Facility Costs
i
Program Costs
Net Impact
Facility
Component
Additional
Operating Expenses
Gymnasium
Net Changes to the
Facility Budget
Revenues
--
(105,000)
(105,000)
Expenditures
98,100
98,800
196,900
Net
98,100
(6,200)
91,900
Monteith Brown Planning Consultants with TRA & MJMA I Page 67
Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
Table 15: Estimated Project Development Cost — South Courtice Arena
I
19L Cost
Building Costs
New Gymnasium
7,800
$330
$2,574,000
Similar to gym at N.D.R.C.
Renovation to Existing Gymnasium
1,950
$200
$390,000
Modest dry change area
Sub -Total
9,750
$2,964,000
Gross Up Area (35%)
3,412.5
$304
$1,037,400
Total Building Area
13,162.5
-
-
Site Costs
Parking
7 50
$3,300
$165,000
Assumed additional parking
Site Servicing
--
--
$0
Assuming not required
Landscaping
$50,000
Assuming minimal requirement
Total Construction Costs
--
$4,216,400
--
Construction Contingency (5%)
$210,820
Soft Costs
Architectural Fees (8.5% construction)
$358,394
Based on pre -contingency cost
Other Fees (2% construction - for
survey, geotech., enviro.)
$84,328
Based on pre -contingency cost
HE (4% construction)
$168,656
Based on pre -contingency cost
Testing and Inspection
$150,000
Lump sum
AN
$150,000
Lump sum
Security
$100,000
Lump sum
Communications
$100,000
Lump sum
Utility Fees
$50,000
Lump sum
Total Soft Costs
--
-
$1,161,378
Soft Cost Contingency (5%)
$58,069
Project Sub -Total $5,646,667
Project Contingency (3%) $169,400
Grand Total khm $5,816,067
Assumes Stipulated Sum Tender
Specific exclusions: Land Costs, Legal Costs, Environmental Remediation, Project Management, LEED designation
Monteith Brown Planning Consultants with TRA & MJMA I Page 68
Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
5.6 Plan for a Future Indoor Aquatics Facility After 2031
There will likely be considerable pressure placed on the proposed new aquatic centre in
Bowmanville if/when the A.S.A.S.C. pool is decommissioned and/or repurposed after reaching the
end of its lifecycle. Furthermore, another new aquatic centre would be required to attain
Municipal -wide service level standards meaning that the Municipality must be prepared to
construct an aquatic centre shortly after the planning period associated with this Indoor Facilities
Development Strategy (i.e. post 2031).
Capital and Operating Cost Implications
To be determined post 2031.
5.7 Other Recommended Directions
Aquatics
Due to lifecycle constraints, aquatics assessments state that the Municipality should evaluate
potential adaptive re -use possibilities for the Alan Strike Aquatic & Squash Centre as well as
determine whether the School Board has an interest in purchasing the building to deliver its
ongoing curriculum. These investigations should occur shortly before the A.S.A.S.C. pool is
decommissioned upon reaching the end of its useful life (note: any further renewal activities
should be relegated to basic health and safety requirements until the pool is decommissioned).
Estimated Timing
Post -2031 depending upon when the A.S.A.S.C. reaches the end of its lifecycle.
Arenas
A service -related outcome from the arena assessments is the implementation of an Ice Allocation
Policy to determine: 1) whether adjusted scheduling and allocation practices can create any
potential efficiencies in the existing arena system; and 2) trends and performance measurement
based on adjusted allocation and collection of detailed registration information for each arena
user (i.e. number of players, their age and residency).
A second outcome from the assessments is continuing to engage the independent Arena Boards
to understand the level of demand being expressed by local arena user groups. It will also be
useful to remain apprised how board -operated arenas allocate their ice time - at the stakeholder
meeting, a demand for ice by Newcastle Minor Hockey Association resulted in a request for ice
time at Municipally -operated arenas for the 2016/17 season which could not be accommodated.
Monteith Brown Planning Consultants with TRA & MJMA I Page 69
Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
Estimated Timing
Short -Term (2017-2021) — Ice Allocation Policy
Ongoing (2016-2031)—Arena Board Engagement
Indoor Turf
To address demands for field time from users that are not affiliated with the Darlington Soccer
Club, the indoor turf assessment recommends that the Municipality engage such users and the
Soccer Club in the review of allocation practices and policies for the Bowmanville Indoor Soccer
Facility. The intent of doing so would be to determine an equitable approach to accommodating
all field sport users interested in using the facility during prime time hours recognizing a number
of factors such as the financial contribution that the Soccer Club originally made towards facility
construction, a goal of effectively maximizing use of the facility and reversing recent trends of
declining bookings, etc.
While no new indoor turf fields have been recommended, the assessments encourage the
Municipality to continue to evaluate any third party partnerships that may be brought to its
attention so long as such a partnership is consistent with Municipal principles and values
surrounding partnerships and that it can demonstrate it will not unduly compromise the
operational sustainability of the Bowmanville Indoor Soccer Facility.
Estimated Timing
Short -Term (2017-2021) — Review of Allocation Policies and Practices
Ongoing (2017-2031) — Consideration of partnership requests, if presented
Fitness Space
A key outcome from the assessment of fitness space is for the Municipality to rescind the Council
resolution made over twelve years ago that restricts expansion into the equipment -based fitness
market in order to not compete with private sector providers. Consultations revealed considerable
interest in replicating this model for existing and future multi -use community centres in Newcastle
and Bowmanville.
The following resolution was approved at the May 12, 2003 Council meeting:
Resolution # C-286-03
Moved by Councillor Schell, seconded by Councillor Rowe
WHEREAS the Municipality of Clarington recognizes that the fitness industry, as a local small
business, is at a disadvantage when directly competing with organizations that do not pay
the taxes that form a significant part of the small business owner's operating expenses;
WHEREAS the Municipality of Clarington does not feel it is in the best interests of its residents
to compete with the fitness industry who are meeting the needs of the community;
WHEREAS the Municipality of Clarington is committed to responding to opportunities for
business retention and attraction;
Monteith Brown Planning Consultants with TRA & MJMA I Page 70
Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED
THAT the Municipality of Clarington hereby advises the local fitness facility owners that it
will not enter into direct competition with the local fitness industry in new facility
construction; and
THAT the Association of Municipalities of Ontario be advised of Council's decision, and be
requested to forward the resolution to the member municipalities for their consideration.
CARRIED.
Estimated Timing
Short -Term (2017-2021) — Rescind Council Resolution #c-286-03 regarding the Provision of
Equipment -Based Fitness Centres.
5.8 Opportunities Associated with Future Community Parks
There are two undeveloped sites that the Municipality of Clarington has identified as future
Community Park land in the Bowmanville area. While the Facilities Strategy has primarily focused
upon expansion and redevelopment of the Municipality's existing recreation centres, the potential
for the construction of future indoor recreation is being considered. At this time, the specific needs
for these two future Community Park sites is not known and will require further discussion at a
future date. Reserving one of the sites for a future indoor aquatics centre (and any other needed
facilities determined at that time) required after 2031 as summarized in preceding paragraphs.
5.9 Capital Funding for the Facilities Strategy
The Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy has proposed the number and type of
facilities and facility expansions that will best serve the residents until 2031. Preceding pages have
set out what capital expenditures are needed including inflationary escalation costs, a timeframe
for project initiation and the cost of maintaining the asset once it has been built (in 2016 dollars).
In summary the capital budget requirements as recommended for recreation facility development
is presented in the following table:
Facility Expansion
Initiation
Year
Capital Budget
Estimates
Expand Bowmanville Soccer Facility — Phase 1
2019
$49.5 Million
Expand Newcastle & District Recreation Complex — Phase 1
2023
$10.4 Million
Expand and Renovate Courtice Community Complex
2025
$10.0 Million
Expand Newcastle & District Recreation Complex — Phase 2
2027
$41.3 Million
Expand South Courtice Arena
2028
$8.5 Million
Expand Bowmanville Soccer Facility — Phase 2
2030
$29.3 Million
Total Capital Program Expenditures - 2019 to 2031
$149.0 Million
* Reflects escalated cost of construction based on 3.5% per annum applied to base cost estimate quoted in
2016 dollars
Monteith Brown Planning Consultants with TRA & MJMA I Page 71
Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
It is clear that the funding required represents a significant share of total capital funding for the
Municipality of Clarington. Council will have the ultimate task of prioritizing the full capital
requirements of all municipal operations. They must weigh the critical nature of capital
requirements for all services to provide infrastructure that is safe and meets the needs of the
residents over this time period. Development Charges and Debt Financing have been the most
prominent methods of financing the capital program in Clarington.
Funding Sources
There are limited sources through which municipalities are able to fund the development and
refurbishment of capital assets. Possible funding sources and a description of these sources is
presented below with respect to its potential use in funding the municipal assets.
Reserves and Reserve Funds
Reserves and reserve funds are typically comprised of the compilation of tax and user fee
revenue that has been set aside for future capital projects. Funding is first collected and saved
before the capital projects are undertaken. The Municipality of Clarington Community
Services Department received Council approval to set aside funds that were generated
through exceeding annual revenue targets. This is a recent development as part of an
approach to fund future capital projects. Limited funds have been generated to date and most
of these funds have been utilized due to unforeseen capital projects that were unfunded.
Development Charges
Development Charges are fixed dollar value per lot or area levied on property developers to
fund municipal infrastructure in the area to be developed. These fees are passed onto buyers
of new homes and are based on specific legislation. The basis for development charges is that
new growth should pay for itself and not burden existing taxpayers. The recent Development
Charges Study completed by Hemson for the Municipality of Clarington indicated that the
2015 — 2024 Development Charges eligible for recovery equal $34.35 million which can be
allocated entirely against future residential development in the Municipality of Clarington. The
capital amounts required post 2024 (2024 — 2030) would be addressed in the next
development Charges Study.
Debt Financing
Long term borrowing is restricted to the financing of long term capital expenditures and has
been a common element of most municipal capital budgets. This capital funding mechanism
has been utilized to a great extent to fund recreation infrastructure in Clarington. The
municipality is currently addressing debenture payments for three recreation facilities — South
Courtice Arena, Bowmanville Indoor Soccer and Newcastle & District Recreation Complex.
Partnerships, Sponsorships and Naming Rights
This funding source refers to partnering with private, non-profit and community stakeholders
for the provision, maintenance, and renewal of municipal assets. Many municipalities (Ajax,
Whitby, Toronto, Mississauga) have employed staff with expertise to seek out alternate
sources of revenue to offset both capital and operating costs to maintain recreation and parks
Monteith Brown Planning Consultants with TRA & MJMA I Page 72
Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
facilities while reducing the fiscal impacts on residents. Many municipalities are partnering
with not-for-profit corporations such as the YMCA to offset some capital impacts and often
ongoing operational costs. The City of London has developed a unique partnership whereby
both agencies program a recreation facility as a collective and registration for programs and
memberships are offered by both organizations.
The Town of Collingwood and Town of Wasaga Beach both have agreements with the Simcoe
Y to operate full recreation centres at no cost to the municipality. Collaboration exists to
ensure that the recreational needs of the community are met.
Partnerships
Partnerships in a municipal recreation setting often emerge because of two agencies having
a mutual interest and benefit from the provision of a service or the development of a facility.
Partnerships are considered by municipalities as a means of reducing capital and/or operating
costs through cost sharing and or in-kind contributions. Clarington's partnership with the John
Howard Society for the Firehouse Youth Centre is but one example of the Municipality's spirit
of collaboration.
Environments for recreation encompass many settings, including homes, schools,
neighbourhoods, community spaces, rural places and the natural and built environments.
Recreation has a leadership role to play in community building in all of these settings, and
creating stronger alignment with other community partners can enhance participation and
avoid duplication. There are a number of types of partnerships that can be considered.
In all partnership arrangements, specifications and requirements must ensure that the partner
respects and aligns with the Department's vision, mandate, values, strategic priorities and
service standards.
Not -for -Profit
Community
Groups
Complementary
Institutions and
Agencies
Community groups exist to provide services,
leagues, education etc. through the use of
volunteers for the most part and are not-for—
profit. They may require assistance in forming
as a group but most likely require space and
consideration for a not-for-profit rate for rental
fees.
Working more effectively with school boards,
hospitals and other agencies such as the Y and
the Boys and Girls Clubs can benefit the
community through the development of joint
programs and initiatives and sharing of
resources. This will broaden the reach of like
programs / services and reduce duplication.
Community groups abide by an
Affiliation Policy or a Community
Development Policy and thrive
more effectively through sharing
of information, cross -marketing
of opportunities and regular
communications to enhance the
delivery system.
Requires a Service Level
Agreement or a Reciprocal
Agreement that outlines the
rights, obligations and
deliverables of each agency.
Monteith Brown Planning Consultants with TRA & MJMA I Page 73
Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
Partnership Principles
Each partnership must be considered with the following guiding principles in mind:
x The outcome of the partnership is aligned with the municipal values, mandate and
priorities;
x There is an demonstrated need for the proposed service in the community;
x The financial and liability risks to the municipality is shared or reduced;
x The partner is best equipped and qualified to co -deliver the service through identified
efficiencies, and the ability to reach an identified segment of the population;
x The quality of the program or service provided through the partnership meets municipal
quality assurance and risk management requirements and complies with legislation;
x Unsolicited for-profit partnership proposals are dealt with transparently and through a
competitive process as identified in the municipal procurement process;
x Accountabilities and responsibilities can be clearly defined and complied with; and
x Annual reporting requirements capture participation numbers, expenditure reduction or
revenue enhancement and are clearly aligned with departmental objectives.
Sponsorships including Naming Rights
Municipalities have sought alternate revenue streams through developing and nurturing
sponsorship opportunities for the last 30+ years in a more focussed effort. Sponsorship
policies have been developed and modified to the point where some municipalities publish a
list of opportunities that the private and not for profit sector can offer to sponsor. The lists
include the planting of trees, program initiatives and capital projects. It is noted that the
development and nurturing of sponsors requires continued efforts either through municipal
staff or a contracted specialist.
Monteith Brown Planning Consultants with TRA & MJMA I Page 74
Private service providers have a for-profit
A contract will articulate the
mandate and may provide specialized programs
rights, obligations and
and services not necessarily in the municipal
deliverables of each party.
mandate. Often profit sharing can provide an
Specific consideration must be
Private Service
alternate form of revenue to the municipality.
given to ensuring that quality
Providers
Public Private Partnerships (PPP) are entered
assurance, risk management and
into to reduce the initial capital burden of
service levels are equal to that of
funding the facility, however most agreements
the municipality.
require the municipality to pay back the capital
costs plus over time.
Partnership Principles
Each partnership must be considered with the following guiding principles in mind:
x The outcome of the partnership is aligned with the municipal values, mandate and
priorities;
x There is an demonstrated need for the proposed service in the community;
x The financial and liability risks to the municipality is shared or reduced;
x The partner is best equipped and qualified to co -deliver the service through identified
efficiencies, and the ability to reach an identified segment of the population;
x The quality of the program or service provided through the partnership meets municipal
quality assurance and risk management requirements and complies with legislation;
x Unsolicited for-profit partnership proposals are dealt with transparently and through a
competitive process as identified in the municipal procurement process;
x Accountabilities and responsibilities can be clearly defined and complied with; and
x Annual reporting requirements capture participation numbers, expenditure reduction or
revenue enhancement and are clearly aligned with departmental objectives.
Sponsorships including Naming Rights
Municipalities have sought alternate revenue streams through developing and nurturing
sponsorship opportunities for the last 30+ years in a more focussed effort. Sponsorship
policies have been developed and modified to the point where some municipalities publish a
list of opportunities that the private and not for profit sector can offer to sponsor. The lists
include the planting of trees, program initiatives and capital projects. It is noted that the
development and nurturing of sponsors requires continued efforts either through municipal
staff or a contracted specialist.
Monteith Brown Planning Consultants with TRA & MJMA I Page 74
Municipality of Clarington
Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy
Naming Rights
Municipalities in Canada have developed Naming Rights policies and guidelines to ensure that
the naming of facilities and programs/events are likely aligned with the corporate vision and
identity. Assets are named generally for one of two reasons; to either recognize an individual
/ group /corporation's contribution to governance or the quality of life within a municipality
or to generate revenue to offset the capital and/or operating costs.
Preliminary work is needed to develop a fair and equitable policy and process to ensure that
municipal interests are protected and that business types are identified that would be either
included or excluded in naming rights opportunities. Naming rights gained through the
provision of funding offer the business access to the commercial or marketing potential and
benefit and are offered for a finite length of time. It must also be noted that a financial "gift"
may be offered to gain naming rights for a period of time that requires no other commitment
from the municipality other than naming of an asset or program/event after a family or an
individual.
The process of market sounding would follow (and sometimes proceed) the development of
a Sponsorship / Naming Rights Policy to determine the potential and interested businesses or
foundations that might respond to a naming opportunity. This allows the municipality to
better understand the scope and potential gain from this approach to reduce costs and
enhance revenue streams.
The Town of Whitby, Town of Ajax and City of Oshawa have all been successful in developing
Sponsorship Policies to increase alternate revenue streams including Naming Rights and have
generated funds to reduce the reliance on tax funded facilities and programs.
Property Taxes
The property tax levy allows for the funding of capital assets directly in the year that the capital
work is initiated and/or completed. The use of the property tax levy where capital costs are
paid in the year that the respective work is completed.
In summary, there are very few options that municipalities can rely on to adequately fund their
municipal capital program without the use of Debt Financing and Development Charges. However,
there are a few options that can reduce reliance on these mechanisms as described and are worth
further exploration in Clarington. The needs outlined in the Municipality of Clarington's Recreation
Facility Development Strategy must be weighed against the current Debt Financing commitments
for recreation facilities and address the full breadth of capital budget requirements in a corporate
context considering other municipal capital programs, plans and commitments.
Monteith Brown Planning Consultants with TRA & MJMA I Page 75