May 2025 Update
Since 2023, Simon Fraser University has been renovating the Lorne Davies Complex (LDC)—a vital athletic and recreation hub at the Burnaby campus originally built in 1965. The aging facility required significant upgrades to ensure it remains safe, functional, and welcoming for students, athletes, and the broader SFU community.
What we discovered
As construction progressed, several previously hidden issues came to light. One of the most critical was the mechanical operating system for the swimming pool, which was found to be at the end of its service life. This system is essential to the pool's operation, and its condition meant that a full upgrade was required.
What this means for the timeline
As a result of these discoveries, the completion date for the LDC renewal has been extended to November 2025. However, because of the additional work required to upgrade the pool's mechanical systems, the pool itself will reopen in summer 2026.
We understand that this delay may be disappointing, but it is essential to ensure the facility meets the highest standards of safety, quality, and sustainability. The upgraded system will not only extend the life of the pool but also improve energy efficiency, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and enhance water quality.
Expanding pool scope
Rather than simply waiting out the delay, SFU is using this time to expand the scope of the project and deliver even more value to the community. One of the most exciting additions is a new universal changeroom for the pool area.
This renovated space will:
- Feature fully enclosed stalls for toilets, showers, and changing, ensuring privacy for all users.
- Include an accessible lift connecting the fitness centre level to the pool level.
- Provide a more inclusive environment for families, individuals of all gender identities, and those with accessibility needs.
Universal changerooms are now the standard in modern aquatic facilities, and this upgrade reflects SFU's commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion where all community members can thrive. For those who prefer gendered facilities, traditional changerooms will remain available in the main LDC building.
Supporting our community through the renewal
We recognize that these changes impact many campus activities. SFU is committed to minimizing disruptions by continuing to provide temporary facilities and alternative locations for many of the affected programs and services. The Varsity Swim Team will continue training at an off-campus facility, and varsity athletes will have access to the temporary Athlete's Village until the new changerooms open in November 2025.
Looking ahead
When the Lorne Davies Complex reopens in November, it will offer a transformed experience for everyone who uses it. The renewed facility will include:
- All-new changerooms with new saunas
- A new combatives room
- An updated East Gym with new flooring and basketball hoops
- A refinished pool deck, which will be ready when the pool reopens
- A complete seismic upgrade to the 1960s building
These upgrades will ensure that the LDC remains a vibrant, inclusive, and high-performing space for students, athletes, and the wider SFU community for generations to come.
For questions, please contact Athletics & Recreation at
ad_office@sfu.ca
