In 2021, the Peace River Regional District embarked on the development of a corporate asset management plan. As an important first step in that process, the PRRD conducted facility condition assessments on all Regional District-owned facilities, including the Golata Creek Community Hall. Due to concerns identified in that initial assessment, a professional engineering firm conducted a structural assessment on the Golata Creek Community Hall.
Unfortunately, the engineers identified that the 64-year-old building is structurally unsafe and has reached the end of its life. Further, the engineering firm recommended to the Regional District that the building no longer be used due to structural issues with the roof and foundation, and the prohibitive cost to remediate these issues. Following the assessment, the PRRD is making the decision to close the Golata Creek Community Hall immediately and indefinitely.
The 3,100-square-foot community hall, located at 6116 Golata Creek Road, was originally constructed as a school in 1958 with additions to the building incorporated in 1978, 1987 and 2008. The PRRD acquired the title to the property in 1986 and the Golata Creek Recreation Society has operated the facility since at least 1983.
Speaking to the decision PRRD Board Chair Brad Sperling noted, “The Golata Creek Recreation Society and their volunteers have done a commendable job providing important social and recreational opportunities for decades in their community at the Golata Creek Community Hall. While the closure of the facility is disappointing, it is in no way a reflection of the years of dedicated volunteer service by the folks at the Society. Unfortunately, the building is simply beyond the point of remediation, and public safety is our paramount concern and rationale behind this difficult decision.”
Regional District staff have been in contact with the Society since the decision and will continue to work with them and the surrounding community to understand what their needs are. The options being considered are a new hall on the existing grounds or other outdoor recreation amenities that can be constructed to serve as a gathering place.
