Seaton Recreation Complex & Library

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We're building a multi-use and multi-generational hub for all Pickering residents

Project Status - where we're at: The Seaton Recreation Complex & Library is now in the detailed design stage of the project. After this, the project will be tendered for construction (Spring 2027) through a competitive bidding process. Staff will then present Council with the results of the tender process for its consideration.

Pickering is growing. Our population is forecast to increase by 45 percent by 2034, fueled in part by new development in central Pickering and intensification in Pickering’s City Centre.

This growth comes with opportunity – and responsibility. We must invest in new community amenities like pools, arenas, libraries, parks, and gyms.

The new Seaton Recreation Complex & Library will bring needed modern recreation, leisure, and library amenities to our community, for all residents to access. We recognize that our existing recreation and library facilities are in extremely high demand. Waiting lists are long, peak-hour crowds strain capacity, and many community members drive farther than they’d like just to access basic programs.

This new facility is the first of its kind in more than 40 years. It will complement the Chestnut Hill Developments Recreation Complex, enhance our library branch network, and help relieve long-standing pressure on facilities city-wide.

It represents more than bricks and mortar – it is a bold investment in our city’s future and quality of life. It will include state-of-the-art amenities from pools, outdoor basketball, skateboarding, and pickleball, to NHL-sized ice pads, a fitness centre, gymnasium, full-service library, and more – creating a vibrant hub where every member of our community can gather, connect, and feel at home.

Approved Schematic Designs - View all.







Project Updates:

September 29, 2025 – Special Meeting of Council

On September 29, 2025, Council advanced the Seaton Recreation Complex & Library to detailed design. After the detailed design is complete, the project will be tendered for construction (Spring 2027) through a competitive bidding process. Staff will then present Council with the results of the tender process for its consideration. The total estimated project cost is $266.365 million, net HST (2026 dollars), including previously-awarded design, contingencies, and other related costs.

Read Report CAO 14-25.

The approved schematic design includes the below amenities.

Indoor amenities:

  • 25-metre, eight lane rectangular pool, plus a separate warm water pool;
  • triple gymnasium supporting basketball, pickleball, volleyball, badminton, and other sports;
  • arena with two NHL-sized ice pads;
  • an indoor/outdoor walking track;
  • multi-purpose program rooms and children’s program areas;
  • fitness centre with weight-training space and group fitness studios;
  • full-service library;
  • administrative and office spaces; and
  • supporting spaces such as program viewing, reception area, lobby, mechanical and storage.

Outdoor amenities:

  • four dedicated pickleball courts;
  • two dedicated tennis courts;
  • destination playground;
  • splash pad;
  • community-size skateboard park;
  • one basketball court;
  • community gardens;
  • approximately 500 public parking spaces, including accessible spaces; and
  • rough-in services for future provision of:
    • extra basketball court;
    • four extra dedicated pickleball courts;
    • full-size illuminated soccer pitch; and
    • outdoor washroom pavilion.

May 26, 2025 – Council Meeting

Council received a report recommending that staff complete additional design work for the Seaton Recreation Complex & Library at a cost not to exceed $250,000.00 funded from the project contingency that results in an alternative design and reduced project cost option not exceeding $200 million, and for the alternative design and reduced project cost option to be returned to Council in September, 2025. Council voted against the recommendation of the report. Read Report CAO 06-25 for details.

April 22, 2025 - Special Meeting of Council

Council received the findings of the public engagement process for the design of the Seaton Recreation Complex & Library for information and considered other staff recommendations outlined in the report. The project is on pause and staff will provide a project update to Council in September 2025. Read Report CAO 05-25 for details.

December 2, 2024 - Seaton Recreation Complex & Library Project Update - RFP2024-7 – Milestone Report #1

Read Report CAO 06-24 for details.

The purpose of this report is to provide a semi-annual project status update on the construction of the Seaton Recreation Complex & Library.

October 2, 2024 - Have your say on the design of Pickering’s new Seaton Recreation Complex & Library
Read News Release

July 2, 2024 - Pickering selects Architect for highly anticipated Seaton Recreation Complex & Library

Read Report OPS 12-24 for details.
Read News Release

We're building a multi-use and multi-generational hub for all Pickering residents

Project Status - where we're at: The Seaton Recreation Complex & Library is now in the detailed design stage of the project. After this, the project will be tendered for construction (Spring 2027) through a competitive bidding process. Staff will then present Council with the results of the tender process for its consideration.

Pickering is growing. Our population is forecast to increase by 45 percent by 2034, fueled in part by new development in central Pickering and intensification in Pickering’s City Centre.

This growth comes with opportunity – and responsibility. We must invest in new community amenities like pools, arenas, libraries, parks, and gyms.

The new Seaton Recreation Complex & Library will bring needed modern recreation, leisure, and library amenities to our community, for all residents to access. We recognize that our existing recreation and library facilities are in extremely high demand. Waiting lists are long, peak-hour crowds strain capacity, and many community members drive farther than they’d like just to access basic programs.

This new facility is the first of its kind in more than 40 years. It will complement the Chestnut Hill Developments Recreation Complex, enhance our library branch network, and help relieve long-standing pressure on facilities city-wide.

It represents more than bricks and mortar – it is a bold investment in our city’s future and quality of life. It will include state-of-the-art amenities from pools, outdoor basketball, skateboarding, and pickleball, to NHL-sized ice pads, a fitness centre, gymnasium, full-service library, and more – creating a vibrant hub where every member of our community can gather, connect, and feel at home.

Approved Schematic Designs - View all.







Project Updates:

September 29, 2025 – Special Meeting of Council

On September 29, 2025, Council advanced the Seaton Recreation Complex & Library to detailed design. After the detailed design is complete, the project will be tendered for construction (Spring 2027) through a competitive bidding process. Staff will then present Council with the results of the tender process for its consideration. The total estimated project cost is $266.365 million, net HST (2026 dollars), including previously-awarded design, contingencies, and other related costs.

Read Report CAO 14-25.

The approved schematic design includes the below amenities.

Indoor amenities:

  • 25-metre, eight lane rectangular pool, plus a separate warm water pool;
  • triple gymnasium supporting basketball, pickleball, volleyball, badminton, and other sports;
  • arena with two NHL-sized ice pads;
  • an indoor/outdoor walking track;
  • multi-purpose program rooms and children’s program areas;
  • fitness centre with weight-training space and group fitness studios;
  • full-service library;
  • administrative and office spaces; and
  • supporting spaces such as program viewing, reception area, lobby, mechanical and storage.

Outdoor amenities:

  • four dedicated pickleball courts;
  • two dedicated tennis courts;
  • destination playground;
  • splash pad;
  • community-size skateboard park;
  • one basketball court;
  • community gardens;
  • approximately 500 public parking spaces, including accessible spaces; and
  • rough-in services for future provision of:
    • extra basketball court;
    • four extra dedicated pickleball courts;
    • full-size illuminated soccer pitch; and
    • outdoor washroom pavilion.

May 26, 2025 – Council Meeting

Council received a report recommending that staff complete additional design work for the Seaton Recreation Complex & Library at a cost not to exceed $250,000.00 funded from the project contingency that results in an alternative design and reduced project cost option not exceeding $200 million, and for the alternative design and reduced project cost option to be returned to Council in September, 2025. Council voted against the recommendation of the report. Read Report CAO 06-25 for details.

April 22, 2025 - Special Meeting of Council

Council received the findings of the public engagement process for the design of the Seaton Recreation Complex & Library for information and considered other staff recommendations outlined in the report. The project is on pause and staff will provide a project update to Council in September 2025. Read Report CAO 05-25 for details.

December 2, 2024 - Seaton Recreation Complex & Library Project Update - RFP2024-7 – Milestone Report #1

Read Report CAO 06-24 for details.

The purpose of this report is to provide a semi-annual project status update on the construction of the Seaton Recreation Complex & Library.

October 2, 2024 - Have your say on the design of Pickering’s new Seaton Recreation Complex & Library
Read News Release

July 2, 2024 - Pickering selects Architect for highly anticipated Seaton Recreation Complex & Library

Read Report OPS 12-24 for details.
Read News Release

  • October 2, 2024 - Have your say on the design of Pickering’s new Seaton Recreation Complex & Library

    Share October 2, 2024 - Have your say on the design of Pickering’s new Seaton Recreation Complex & Library on Facebook Share October 2, 2024 - Have your say on the design of Pickering’s new Seaton Recreation Complex & Library on Twitter Share October 2, 2024 - Have your say on the design of Pickering’s new Seaton Recreation Complex & Library on Linkedin Email October 2, 2024 - Have your say on the design of Pickering’s new Seaton Recreation Complex & Library link

    Pickering, ON, October 2, 2024 – The City of Pickering invites community members to learn about the proposed concept designs for the Seaton Recreation Complex & Library and vote on their favourite.

    The new facility will help meet both the immediate and future needs of Pickering's growing community, and will be located at the re-aligned Whitevale Road (future Alexander Knox) & Sideline 24 (future Burkholder Drive) in Seaton.

    Public input received during the community engagement phase will help shape a final design proposal, which will be presented to Council for review and consideration in the first quarter of 2025.

    The concept designs, prepared by award-winning architecture and design firm, Perkins & Will, each offer a unique layout and site experience for visitors:

    1. Concept Design #1 – this option offers a bold and urban site arrangement that prioritizes the built form to create an urban edge, and clearly distinguishes between the building and the park.
    2. Concept Design #2 – this option offers an organic landscape to create impactful relationships with nature and unique opportunities for learning and interacting outdoors.
    3. Concept Design #3 – this option provides a series of landscape terraces that flow with the site and invite community through experiences that range from structured indoor and outdoor programs to a naturalized area.

    View a summary of site plans and amenities for each of the concept designs:

    Visit LetsTalkPickering.ca/Seaton to complete the survey by November 7, 2024.

    “This state-of-the-art facility will not only be the largest project in Pickering’s history, but also the first multi-purpose recreation complex built in over 40 years,” said Mayor Kevin Ashe. “I encourage all community members to vote on their preferred design option and share their ideas. We have the opportunity to create a vibrant hub that inspires connection, activity, and growth for generations to come.”

    Those interested in learning more are invited to attend one of the City’s upcoming open houses, where they can chat with the project team and provide their feedback in person:

    • Thursday, October 3 from 4:30 pm to 7:30 pm at the Chestnut Hill Developments Recreation Complex (1867 Valley Farm Road)
    • Wednesday, October 9 from 9:30 am to 12:30 pm at the Chestnut Hill Developments Recreation Complex (1867 Valley Farm Road)
    • Tuesday, October 15 from 4:30 pm to 7:30 pm at the Pickering Public Library (One The Esplanade)

    Construction is expected to begin in Spring 2026, subject to Council approval, and the facility is anticipated to open in Spring 2029. Visit LetsTalkPickering.ca/Seaton for project details, future updates, and opportunities to participate.

    Media Contact:

    Nicole Hann
    Coordinator, Public Affairs & Corporate Communications | Office of the CAO
    905.420.4660 ext. 2028 | 1.866.683.2760
    nhann@pickering.ca

  • July 2, 2024 - Pickering selects Architect for highly anticipated Seaton Recreation Complex & Library

    Share July 2, 2024 - Pickering selects Architect for highly anticipated Seaton Recreation Complex & Library on Facebook Share July 2, 2024 - Pickering selects Architect for highly anticipated Seaton Recreation Complex & Library on Twitter Share July 2, 2024 - Pickering selects Architect for highly anticipated Seaton Recreation Complex & Library on Linkedin Email July 2, 2024 - Pickering selects Architect for highly anticipated Seaton Recreation Complex & Library link

    Pickering Council has awarded the design and associated costs required for the Seaton Recreation Complex & Library to renowned design and architecture firm, Perkins & Will Canada Inc.

    This state-of-the-art facility, slated for Pickering’s growing community of Seaton, will be the largest project in the City’s history and represent the first multipurpose recreation complex built in Pickering in over 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 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. Together, we will ensure that this new facility not only meets the practical needs of our community, but also enlivens the neighbourhood, becoming a beacon of innovation, sustainability, and communal pride.”

    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. Amenities are envisioned to 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.

    About Perkins & Will

    Perkins & Will is a global, interdisciplinary, research-based architecture and design firm, with an award-winning portfolio and long-term plan to become the world's leading sustainable design firm.

    The firm has more than 75 years of experience creating beautiful and uplifting spaces, specializing in sustainable design and serving a range of clients across both public and private sectors. Learn more.

    Community Engagement

    The final amenities and functional programs for the Seaton Recreation Complex & Library will be guided by the City's Recreation & Parks - Ten Year Plan, the Pickering Public Library's Strategic Plan, and most importantly, community consultation.

    Community consultation will be at the core of informing this transformative new space, ensuring accessible and inclusive programs and services to support the diverse and evolving needs of residents now, and into the future.

    Visit LetsTalkPickering.ca/Seaton for project details, future updates, and opportunities to participate.

    Tentative Project Timeline:

    Summer 2024

    Perkins & Will Canada Inc. will create three proposed facility design concepts.

    October 2024

    Community engagement on the three proposed facility design concepts.

    December 2024

    Report to Council with summary of community feedback on the three proposed facility design concepts; and, for Council’s selection of the preferred design concept.

    2025

    Completion of detailed design of the preferred design concept; and request to Council for pre-approval of general contractor for the construction of the Seaton Recreation Complex & Library.

    Spring 2026

    Award and start of construction, subject to Council approval.

    Spring 2029

    Anticipated opening.
Page last updated: 22 Dec 2025, 10:11 AM