Revitalizing Strathcona Gardens
Strathcona Gardens Recreation Complex has served Campbell River, Electoral Area D and surrounding communities for more than 50 years.
With aging infrastructure and changing recreation needs, the Strathcona Regional District (SRD) launched REC-REATE to renew and expand the facility and create modern, accessible and inclusive recreation spaces for future generations.
Two Phases. One Vision.
REC-REATE is being delivered in two major phases.
Phase 1 – Aquatic & Wellness
Phase 1 is transforming the aquatic, wellness, fitness and shared spaces at Strathcona Gardens.
Construction began in September 2024. The new Aquatic Centre is scheduled to open October 2026, with the remaining wellness and fitness improvements expected to be completed in Summer 2027.
Phase 2 – New Arena, Parking & Covered Path
Phase 2 will expand ice capacity with a new third arena, while improving parking and access to Strathcona Gardens.
Approved in June 2026, the new direction allows both existing arenas to remain operational while the third arena is constructed and incorporates adjacent Pinecrest Park lands for additional parking.
Why REC-REATE?
REC-REATE is designed to:
- Replace aging infrastructure
- Expand recreation opportunities and capacity
- Improve accessibility and inclusion
- Support health, wellness and active living
- Create welcoming community spaces
- Meet the region’s recreation needs for generations to come
More Than a Decade of Planning
REC-REATE is the result of more than a decade of facility assessments, community engagement, planning, feasibility studies, and design .
Planning began in 2015, with Phase 1 construction starting in 2024. In June 2026, the SRD approved a new direction for Phase 2 that includes a third arena and expanded parking and access.
Community Input
Community input has helped shape REC-REATE throughout the planning and design process.
Residents, facility users, user groups, First Nations and community representatives have participated through surveys, workshops, open houses, information sessions, comment cards and design reviews.