The Brennan Park Recreation Centre’s swimming pool in Squamish is expected to remain closed for at least a month after failing slip-resistance safety tests, officials say.
Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH) confirmed that an Environmental Health Officer visited the facility on Jan. 15 in response to concerns about slippery tiles. Following an independent third-party slip resistance test, VCH determined that none of the tiled areas met the required safety standard for wet surfaces.
“As the health and safety of residents is a key priority, a Closure Order was warranted until the safety risk is mitigated,” VCH said in a statement. The health authority is now working with the District of Squamish to find a solution that will allow the pool to reopen as soon as possible.
The District of Squamish noted that while past inspections identified other maintenance issues—such as a loose ladder, broken gutter drain grates, and non-functioning circuit breakers—these were unrelated to the recent closure. The latest slip-resistance tests, conducted under VCH’s direction on Feb. 11, revealed that the pool did not meet provincial safety standards, prompting the immediate shutdown.
“There is no set timeline for reopening,” the district stated, adding that corrective actions, further inspections, and regulatory approval will determine when the facility can welcome swimmers again. Officials estimate the closure will last at least four weeks but could extend depending on the scope of required repairs and the approval process.
The closure affects aquatic programs, with all registered classes and rentals automatically cancelled and refunded next week. Monthly and multi-visit pass holders will have their passes extended. Meanwhile, Brennan Park Recreation Centre’s front desk will close at 9 p.m. on weekdays for the duration of the pool closure, but arena rentals will continue as usual.
