A location for the Mews Centre replacement in St. John’s has been decided, despite a last minute submission from those opposed.

St. John’s city council has approved Mundy Pond Park as the location for the new facility.

While many on council seemed to agree the area is the best choice, there is opposition from the community. Councilor Jamie Korab tabled a petition, submitted to him Monday morning, with about 170 signatures from area residents opposed to the location.

Some councilors felt the vote on the location should be deferred so the petition could be properly reviewed. However, that motion was defeated and the vote proceeded.

Councilor Jamie Korab says he believes Mundy Pond Park is the best option. He says the new facility, as well as the Canadian Tire Jumpstart playground which will also be built in the area, will actually enhance the park.

Korab says they expect to have shovels in the ground to begin the project next construction season.

Not Going to Repeat the Mistakes of the Paul Reynolds Centre, says Korab

Meanwhile, Korab says the city will not repeat some of the same mistakes made during the construction of the Paul Reynolds Community Centre.

That centre, which opened in 2017, has seen a fair share of issues over the last two years. Most recently, the pool was shut down for over a week due to problems with its air intake system.

As well, the pool is set to close on September first for almost two months for maintenance.

Korab says the city has learned from its mistakes. He notes the Paul Reynolds centre was the first of its kind built by the city, all other facilities were inherited.

He says during the construction of the Mews Centre replacement there will be greater attention to detail so they can ensure it will last a long time.