SURREY: Safe Surrey Coalition Councillor Doug Elford and Councillor Mandeep Nagra have slammed Newton BIA President Philip Aguirre for his recent comments opposing plans to build the new world class Newton Community Centre.
According to Nagra the Newton community has historically been neglected and under-invested in by previous city councils. Former Mayor Doug McCallum and the Safe Surrey Coalition, proposed to build a state-of-the-art community centre for the families of Newton.
An estimated $100 million project planned at 6965 King George Boulevard, near the area’s existing recreation and centre, and TransLink’s bus exchange was approved by the previous Mayor and council. The new facility is expected to be open to the public by the end of 2024.
But in a recent statement Newton BIA President Aguirre questioned why the site was chosen for a community centre when the area’s “civic core” is located across the street, where an existing recreation centre stands, closer to 72nd Avenue and the current transit hub.
The first phase is proposed to include an aquatic centre with a 10-lane, 50-metre lap pool, a leisure pool, lazy river, water attractions, large family hot tub, sauna, steam rooms, multi-purpose spaces, a fitness centre, childcare facility, and other indoor and outdoor amenities.
Aguirre questioned could the site be better utilized as mix-use high density affordable housing? “We are asking the new council and Mayor of Surrey to reimagine this plan and instead reinvest this capital expenditure into redeveloping the existing facilities and lands. The Newton Arena, Wave Pool, Recreation Centre, Senior Centre & Library need a comprehensive plan for revitalization, not a political promise that does not fit into the Official Community Plan. Community consultation matters!”
“It is unfortunate that Mr. Aguirre, who does not reside in Surrey, is advocating for delaying this important project for our community and young families. The new Newton Community Centre will be a vital resource for residents and should not be delayed by the personal opinions of those who do not reside in the area,” said CouncillorElford.
CouncillorNagra added, “The residents and families of Newton deserve the best and should not be denied access to world-class civic facilities. Safe Surrey Coalition will reject any attempts to delay or impede the construction of the Newton Community Centre.”
