‘Innovative’ partnership between BC and Township of Langley to bring new school to the region

An agreement struck between the Township of Langley, the province and the Langley School District will see Willoughby Elementary School replaced by a new facility. In its place, a community centre, public plaza and green space will be built.

The province said in its announcement that while Willoughby Elementary remains “a safe learning environment for students,” a new school could bring modern features and place students closer to parks and amenities.

The replacement school is slated to be built on six acres of undeveloped Township land, next to the Langley Tennis Centre within the south portion of Yorkson Community Park.

The partnership has been formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), but before the project can move forward, a feasibility study will need to be conducted by the Township to determine costs and timelines. 

If it moves forward, the Township will cover the cost of the new school, while leading its design, permitting and construction.

Once the construction of the school is complete, its ownership would transfer to the Langley School District and the site of the current school would transfer to the Township.

The province says the current Willoughby Elementary site is ideal for a new community centre “due to its central location and proximity to major bus routes and the Willoughby Town Centre.”

Eric Woodward, mayor of the Township of Langley, said the project is a response to the community's call for an aquatic and community centre as Willoughby continues to grow, which was highlighted during an engagement process for new community amenities.

 “The Township took the lead in bringing forward a practical solution and working with the Province and the Langley School District to make it possible,” Woodward said in a statement. 

“As Willoughby continues to grow, families have been clear that we need an aquatic and community centre to keep pace.”

He said the project will bring a new library, pools, gymnasiums, seniors and youth spaces, and areas for outdoor gathering to “the heart of Willoughby.”