Aquatic Strategy

The intent of the Aquatic Strategy is to expand the capacity of safe, affordable and accessible indoor and outdoor aquatic opportunities that promote healthy lifestyle choices for all residents. 

The Aquatic Strategy is one of several initiatives identified in the Open Spaces and Recreation Facility Strategy (OSRFS). This strategy is being developed to guide the long-term planning, design and development of aquatic amenities (indoor and outdoor) throughout the County in the coming years. 

On April 24, 2012 the Aquatic Strategy was approved by Council. The strategy includes the following recommendations:

  • Revitalization of Kinsmen Leisure Centre (2013) and Millennium Place aquatic spaces (2014 target, pending budget approval)
  • Creation of a large, community wide spray park at Broadmoor Lake Park (2014 target, pending budget approval)
  • Construction of new aquatic facility at Emerald Hills regional recreation site (2015 target, pending budget approval)

Strathcona County will continue to keep residents informed as it moves forward with the capital budget process and detailed planning of the indoor and outdoor aquatic facilities. Long-term planning includes assessing aquatic needs as the community grows, and incorporating feedback into a future new major multipurpose recreation facility.


Find out more

These recommendations reflect two years of public and stakeholder consultation. This included an in-depth review of public feedback, along with follow-up on a number of points and ideas brought forward by residents. Council’s feedback was also incorporated into the Aquatic Strategy. There will be specific opportunities to give feedback related to the detailed design of the indoor aquatic options and outdoor aquatic options, once budget funding is approved.


Did you know?
  • The new aquatic space at Emerald Hills will allow current capacity for swimming lessons to double, creating up to 1,800 spaces per session.
  • Over 67 per cent of residents surveyed preferred a large community spray park over smaller neighbourhood sites.

Public engagement

It is Strathcona County’s goal is to engage residents in dialogue around the needs and priorities for future indoor and outdoor aquatic options. The County’s public engagement is based on a continuum of opportunity to provide input, listen and learn, collaborate and inform. Learn more.

Last updated: Friday, April 27, 2012
Page ID: 6794

County Hall: 2001 Sherwood Drive, Sherwood Park, Alberta, Canada T8A 3W7