Regional Recreation Services Planning

The Strathcona Regional District (SRD) is exploring opportunities to strengthen regional collaboration in the delivery of recreation services, including facilities and programming.

In 2024, the SRD completed a Regional Recreation Services Feasibility Study, which assessed existing services and identified potential models for improved coordination and efficiency. The study concluded that a fully region-wide recreation service model is not warranted at this time, but identified opportunities for sub-regional approaches where functional access, utilization, and shared benefit can be demonstrated.

As a result, two follow-up reviews were commissioned to further examine specific facilities:

• Strathcona Gardens Recreation Complex (Campbell River)
  This review assessed whether neighbouring communities may have sufficient access, participation, and benefit to support consideration of a broader sub-regional service model. The analysis examined patterns of use, travel access, program participation, and broader regional benefits associated with the facility as a primary recreation hub.
• Kelsey Centre (Sayward)
  This review examined the role of the Kelsey Centre in serving the broader Sayward Valley, including the relationship between facility use and the surrounding population. The analysis considered travel distances, participation levels, and the alignment between users and the current funding structure.

These reports provide additional information to support understanding of how recreation services are used across the region and where collaborative service models may be appropriate.