Nonprofit operator
A community nonprofit could potentially lease or operate the facility.
The issue
Two decisions, considered separately.
The acquisition of land beside Westwood Lake Park and the future of the existing indoor recreation facility are separate policy questions. Acquiring the property does not, by itself, determine whether the indoor courts should be removed.
What has been announced
The City announced the $2.88-million acquisition on September 16, 2026. The City says the club will cease operations November 1 and that the indoor bubble will be removed. Reporting places expected City possession on December 18.
The City has also indicated that future uses will be shaped through broader planning and community engagement.
The request
Before an existing year-round recreation facility is removed, pause, consult the community, and evaluate whether there is a practical way to retain indoor tennis.Read the community petition
What the City has said
The City's stated rationale
The City says the purchase expands Westwood Lake Park, increases public access to the property, and creates opportunities for future recreation and community amenities. It also says broader planning and community engagement will help determine future uses of the site.
This site presents that rationale separately from the community question of whether the existing indoor tennis facility should be assessed before it is removed.
Read the City announcementA limited, practical step
What a pause would allow
Assess the physical condition and remaining useful life
Review operating and maintenance costs
Measure demand for year-round indoor tennis
Consider nonprofit, lease and partnership models
Complete meaningful public consultation
Options that could be evaluated
Retaining indoor tennis would not necessarily require direct City operation.
These are options for evaluation, not predetermined recommendations. Their feasibility would require financial, legal and operational analysis.
See what is knownLease to an experienced operator
The City could retain ownership while leasing recreational operations.
Public-private partnership
Operating responsibility and financial risk could potentially be shared.
Temporary continuation
The facility could remain while Nanaimo develops a broader recreation strategy.