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A $13.5 million upgrade to Ravensong Aquatic Centre in Qualicum Beach is expected to begin late next year, addressing some energy efficiency and accessibility concerns. (Image Credit: Regional District of Nanaimo)
$13.5 million project

Energy consumption, accessibility priorities of Ravensong Aquatic Centre revamp

Aug 27, 2026 | 4:05 PM

QUALICUM BEACH — Substantial renovations are poised to revamp a well-used Oceanside amenity.

A reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, improved accessibility, and replacement of high-traffic surfaces are the main goals behind a planned $13.5 million project at Ravensong Aquatic Centre in Qualicum Beach.

Financing of the project will be split between the grant, awarded in July, and $6.5 million in capital reserve funding from the Regional District of Nanaimo.

Work is expected to begin in the fall of 2027 and will focus on heating, filtration, pumps, and other building systems, replacement of existing pool deck tile and regrading slopes inside the pool itself.

Accessibility changes in the lobby and changerooms are also planned.

The current project scope is a slimmed-down version of a concept which was ultimately voted down by the area residents in 2025.

A previous proposal called for expansion of the oversubscribed facility, however voters resoundingly rejected an RDN request to borrow up to $30 million in 2025.

“Following the referendum, the Board directed staff to look at a revised project scope that could still utilize the provisionally approved $7 million federal funding contribution without including an expansion to the facility,” a release from the RDN read.

Once complete, greenhouse gas emissions are expected to drop 83.9 per cent compared to the current facility, while saving approximately $22,000 in annual energy costs.

Built in 1995, the facility has been considered “unable to meet community demand” since 2006, according to the RDN.

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