Newcastle Arena to get $4 million in upgrades in 2023

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Published March 28, 2023 at 10:19 am

The 47 year-old Newcastle Memorial Arena will be getting a $4 million facelift next month, upgrades that are expected to add 10-15 years to the life of the community rink.

The $4-million renovation project includes:

  • Replacing the rink floor and refrigerated ice pad.
  • A new refrigeration system, compressor and an updated refrigeration room to meet all TSSA (Technical Standards and Safety Authority) guidelines.
  • All new rink boards, penalty boxes and benches.
  • New six-foot safety glass surrounding the spectator area.
  • A fully accessible washroom in the lobby.
  • An upgraded front entrance.
  • A fresh coat of paint on the exterior of the building.
  • Installation of two new change rooms, with new accessible changing stalls, fresh rubber flooring, new showers, and sinks. This will bring the total number of change rooms in the facility to six, which will help with hallway congestion and be more convenient for players, skaters, and coaches.

Opened in 1976, the arena has never had a major renovation before, said Clarington Facilities Manager Ken Ferguson. “It’s basically going to be a brand-new ice surface and perimeter boards.”

The single-sheet ice rink (with off-season community space) is owned by the Municipality of Clarington and operated by the volunteer Newcastle Memorial Arena Management Board.

“We’re upgrading the rink, but we’re not changing who we are. We’re still maintaining that small community rink, keeping the local ambiance and character of the facility while bringing it up to date. It’s very exciting,” said Dave Bouma, who chairs the arena management board.

The renovations, particularly the modern refrigeration system and rink upgrades, will help the rink serve a rapidly growing community, Bouma added, who also asked the community for patience while the work is being done.

The renovation project will begin April 1 and is expected to be completed by the end of the year. The Newcastle Memorial Arena will be closed while the work is underway.

“We’re extremely grateful to Clarington for the significant investment in the arena. This will ensure that residents have a viable arena for years to come,” he said.  “It is a major project.”

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