FAQ: PUBLIC SWIM SCHEDULE CHANGE

What’s changing?

Starting November 1, 2026, public swim runs at set times. The pool is closed to public swimming during weekday lessons and school groups (12:00 – 2:30 p.m.) and Monday through Thursday swim club training (5:00 – 7:00 p.m.).

Why?

When public swim runs alongside organized groups, much of the pool is taken up and it’s hard to predict how much room you’ll have. Setting times aside for each use means public swimmers get space set aside for them, and lessons, schools and the swim club get the dedicated space their programs need.

Does this mean less public swim time?

Yes, on weekdays. Public swim won’t run during weekday lessons and school group sessions or during Monday through Thursday swim club training. Under the new schedule, public swim is offered 61.5 hours a week and every day of the week.

I was told three lanes would be open from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. What changed?

That schedule was set for 2025/2026 and automatically continued for the 26/27 season prior to Council approval of the new public swim schedule. Starting November 1, the pool is closed to public swim Monday to Thursday from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. for swim club training, with swimming lessons in the leisure pool.

Why do booked groups get the pool to themselves?

Groups that book pool space pay the Council-approved rate for dedicated use. Schools need a controlled space to supervise students safely, and swim clubs need dedicated lanes for training. The pool can’t safely hold those programs and public swim in the same space at the same time.

What happens if a booked group doesn’t use its time?

The pool stays closed to public swim. That time is used for maintenance, inspections, staff training and emergency response drills, which keeps the public schedule the same every week.

Can I come in for Aquafit on Thursdays at noon?

Yes. Drop-in Aquafit runs Thursdays 12:00–12:45 p.m. It is the only activity open to the public during the weekday 12:00 - 2:30 p.m. block, and it is for Aquafit participants only. There is no public swim during that time. Drop-in is $8.75 for adults and $6.40 for seniors, and passes are accepted. After class, participants may use the hot tub for up to 5 minutes before leaving.

Is there a dedicated seniors, accessibility or parent-and-tot swim time?

Not as a separate public swim time. Parent-and-tot lessons are offered as part of the seasonal swim lesson schedule.

Are lessons running during public swim?

Swimming lessons run from 4:00 to 7:30 p.m. Outside the 5:00–7:00 p.m. closure, the pool is open to public swim while lessons are running.

Can I use the hot tub, steam room, lazy river, splash pad or leisure pool when the pool is closed to public swim?

No. The facility, including the hot tub, steam room, lazy river, splash pad and leisure pool, is closed to public swim weekdays 12:00–2:30 p.m. and Monday to Thursday 5:00–7:00 p.m.

What happens on school breaks and statutory holidays?

On statutory holidays, public swim runs 12:00–4:00 p.m. On school breaks and PD days, the weekday 12:00–2:30 p.m. block stays closed to public swim because it is booked by homeschool groups and schools from other divisions (outside of Pembina Hills). Holiday hours are posted on this page and on the Town’s Facebook page at least one week ahead.

Are prices or passes changing?

No. There are no changes to admission prices or passes as part of this schedule change.

I have a monthly pass and the new times don’t work for me. What are my options?

Speak with the front desk or call 780-674-2532 about the pass options available.

Who made this decision?

Town Council approved the change at its September 29, 2026 meeting, following a recommendation from the Town’s Recreation department. The report is in the meeting agenda: September 29, 2026 agenda

Will weekend hours change?

No. Public swim continues Saturdays and Sundays from 12:00 to 6:00 p.m.

Is this permanent?

The scheduled public swim model is the Aquatic Centre’s ongoing way of operating. Specific times may be adjusted for holidays, or programming changes, and any change will be posted here first.

How can I share feedback?

Speak with the front desk, call 780-674-2532, or email recreation@barrhead.ca. All feedback is shared with the Recreation department.

Where can I get a copy of the schedule?

Pick up a printed calendar at the front desk or view the calendar available on https://barrhead.ca/p/pool