The pool at the Nelson and District Community Complex is closed until further notice after a section of ceiling tiles fell in the facility today.
“No one was injured but we are taking all precautions to ensure the public’s and staff’s safety,” said Joe Chirico, general manager of community services for the Regional District of Central Kootenay. “Therefore, the RDCK is closing the pool until an assessment is done and the problem is fixed.”
A 16’ x 4’ section of tiles fell from the false ceiling while a class was underway. Part of it landed in the water and part on the deck, but Chirico said it caused no damage on the ground “other than being messy.”
An architectural firm is evaluating why it happened.
The incident comes as the entire building’s structural soundness is being assessed. The recreation commission has asked for an update on the state of the facility, a timeline on repairs, and a retrofit design with an option to build a new aquatic centre.
However, Chirico said while the tile incident may be symptomatic of the aquatic centre’s deficiencies, “This was not a particular problem identified.”
He isn’t sure how long the pool will be closed, but says it will be at least the rest of today and probably tomorrow. He’s hoping for an update this afternoon.
The aquatic centre was built in 1975 and last renovated in 2005 when the adjacent arena was built.