RDN directors approved a construction tender for a new concession/washroom building at Errington Community Park. (Regional District of Nanaimo)

By Ian Holmes

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‘I’m amazed at the cost:’ envisioned price tag balloons for new concession/washroom building

Sep 14, 2023 | 6:19 PM

ERRINGTON — A necessary amenity to serve the well-used Errington Community Park has been approved, however it’ll be much more expensive than the Regional District of Nanaimo hoped for.

RDN directors unanimously approved a $455,000 contract to build and install a modular concession/washroom building at Errington Community Park on Veterans Rd. just off Errington Rd.

The accessible building, to replace an aging existing similar facility, is expected to see construction start in November and eventually lead to the demolition of the existing building, according to an RDN staff report.

Originally, the board budgeted approximately $300,000 for the project.

RDN directors recently reallocated $250,000 destined for a fire engine replacement for the Coombs-Hilliers Volunteer Fire Dept. to prop up the concession/washroom building project.

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Board chair Vanessa Craig expressed sticker shock while assessing the lone bid submission during the Tuesday, Sept. 12 regular board meeting.

“I’m amazed at the cost of a modular building and with only one bid…Do we look at bids and say ‘yep, that’s reasonable based on all of our experience?'”

In response, Tom Osbourne, the RDN’s general manager of recreation and parks, stated the pending new facility is within their amended budget.

“It is a concession building as well which has washrooms and kitchen features in the building as well, which can be costly,” Osbourne said.

A project contingency of nearly $95,000 has been set aside for the project, the RDN staff report noted.

The new building, which includes a commercial-grade kitchen, will be a key feature in supporting the popular seasonal Errington Farmer’s Market, which runs every Saturday from May through the end of September.

Numerous other recent upgrades undertaken by the RDN at Errington Community Park include a new playground, pathway and picnic shelter.

Artist’s rendering of a new amenity building to be constructed at Errington Community Park. (RDN)

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ian@nanaimonewsnow.com

On Twitter: @reporterholmes