In the spring of 2024, inspired by harbour decks in Copenhagen, Paris and other cities around the world, as well as City Council’s desire to better connect North Vancouver to Burrard Inlet, the City of North Vancouver entered into an agreement with national environmental not-for-profit organization Swim Drink Fish Canada to undertake a feasibility study for a proposed Harbour Swimming Deck to be located at Waterfront Park. This study also included water quality testing for swimming suitability. The results of the testing can be found here.

The purpose of the study was to consider the opportunities, challenges and key considerations associated with realizing a Harbour Swimming Deck. Waterfront Park was determined to be the site given the zoning of the water lot adjacent to the park which allows recreational use, the high-profile location along the seawall and its proximity to the popular Shipyards precinct.

Since then, City Council has endorsed proceeding with the project and staff are now moving into detailed design. Community engagement will help further shape how we build and run the future Harbour Swimming Deck recreational area.

Harbour Swimming Deck project is made possible through a partnership with the national environmental non-profit organization Swim Drink Fish, supported by a generous donation from the Weston family and additional funding from the City of North Vancouver.