The City of Pickering has selected architects Perkins & Will to design its new Seaton Recreation Complex & Library.

The facility will be the largest project in Pickering’s history and the first multipurpose recreation complex built in the city in more than 40 years.

“Selecting the right architect is a pivotal moment in seeing the Seaton Recreation Complex & Library come to fruition, as it brings visionary design and expertise to the forefront, transforming our shared dreams into tangible reality,” said Mayor Kevin Ashe. “Pickering is experiencing significant population growth, and with that, comes higher demand for growth-related infrastructure like community/recreation facilities, libraries, fire stations, roads, and more.”

The facility will be located at the re-aligned Whitevale Road (future Alexander Knox) and Sideline 24 (future Burkholder Drive), sitting on a total project site of approximately 25 acres.

Planned amenities include an aquatics centre, with a 25-metre pool and separate warm-water leisure pool, gymnasium, walking track, fitness centre and studios, full-service library, two-pad arena, playground, splash pad, additional outdoor spaces, and more.

Beginning in October, the city will launch a community engagement on three proposed design concepts for the facility. Council is scheduled to announce the preferred design concept in December, with detailed design to be completed during 2025, and construction projected to starts in the spring of 2026. If all goes according to plan, the facility should open in the spring of 2029.