(File photo/battlefordsNOW Staff)

By Kenneth Cheung

NEW ARENA TALK

North Battleford weighs mutimillion-dollar cost of new arena versus renovation

Mar 31, 2025 | 1:03 PM

The Civic Centre is nearing its final buzzer, and the city is weighing its next move.

A feasibility study by Nustadia Recreation, set to be presented at tonight’s Planning Committee meeting, outlines the economic and social benefits of a new facility while warning that maintaining the existing arena long-term could be more costly than replacing it.

Options on the table

• A twin-pad arena in partnership with municipalities and First Nations, estimated at $80.2 million.

• A single-pad arena for $57.3 million.

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• Renovating the Civic Centre for $14.1 million, plus a $1.5-million contingency fund, to extend its lifespan by at least 14 years.

• A short-term fix, investing up to $2 million to maintain the facility for four more years while planning for a new build.

The key elements of the Twin Pad funding plan

• Municipal and regional partners – Cost-sharing based on usage and population, with $20 million from North Battleford and $20 million from partners.

• First Nations partnerships – Financial contributions and programming support, with $20 million in potential funding.

• Government grants – Applications for $10 million to $20 million in federal and provincial infrastructure funding.

• Community support – Naming rights, sponsorships, and fundraising efforts, targeting $10 million to $15 million.

The issues of keeping the old building

Structural issues – The building has significant slab settlement and cracking, indicating potential foundational problems that would require expensive repairs.

Asbestos concerns – The presence of asbestos would require costly abatement if any renovations were to take place.

Code compliance challenges – Many building elements do not meet current National Building Code (NBC) standards, meaning major upgrades would be needed to bring it up to code.

Ground and water-related issues – Drainage and soil stability concerns could further impact the building’s long-term integrity, requiring continuous investment in mitigation.

Economic impact and community benefits of a new arena

The study estimates a new arena would create between 200 and 250 temporary jobs, generating $58.6 million in local spending. Over 30 years, projected operational revenues could reach $30.1 million, with increased tourism and events benefiting local businesses.

Beyond financial gains, the report highlights broader community benefits, including improved engagement, reduced crime rates and a stronger sense of civic pride.

Regional partnerships key to success

The study recommends North Battleford collaborate with neighbouring municipalities and First Nations to help fund and operate the facility.

No final decision is expected tonight, but discussions will continue with regional partners who have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to explore the project.

The meeting begins at 6 p.m. at the Don Ross Centre Chamber and is open to the public both in person and online via Zoom.

—

Kenneth.Cheung@pattisonmedia.com