Gallagher Centre, Yorkton, Saskatchewan

Built in 1977, the recreation facility in Yorkton was overdue for a facelift. The impetus for upgrading the existing six-lane competition pool was to meet the changing needs of a growing and dynamic population of 17,000 residents. The City of Yorkton issued a proposal call that resulted in the selection of a design team that has worked together many times before to bring to fruition some of the most innovative recreation and community facilities in Canada. The resulting upgrade included an new 810 square-metre leisure pool, sauna, steam room, hot tub, water slide, wave-making machine, bubble pit, and a lazy river… ideal for children and seniors alike.

A pre-engineered building was used to house a new flexi-hall that doubles as a soccer pitch and running track with 300 seats for spectators. This space will also be used for indoor trade shows and agricultural exhibitors.

The Gallagher Centre now includes an existing hockey arena and curling rink, a renovated main-floor lobby with the addition of an atrium and concessions, and a renovated convention centre. The existing building's heating system was upgraded and energy-efficient fixtures and a new exhaust system installed.

At 11,706 square-metres the Gallagher Centre is the crown jewel of recreation facilities and may be the largest indoor recreation facility of its type in Saskatchewan and will function as the "social heart" of this community and, with activities for everyone, will create an outstanding meeting place.

VDA acted as Specialist Aquatic Consultant to Hutchinson Architects Inc.