Photo: Mayor Iain Lovatt announces the official start of construction on the new Ballantrae multi-sport complex.
The long-rumoured, multi-sport complex first okayed by council in January is finally underway – officially at least. Local officials, representatives from sports teams and members of the Ballantrae Sports Group that will build and run the facility gathered to break ground this afternoon.
The decision to build the facility consisting of two domes and a clubhouse as well as a FIFA-regulation soccer field, racket sports courts, a fitness club, track, batting cages among other services, was made by council this past January.
Billed originally as an alternative to the now closed and money-losing Soccer City, the multi-sports complex clearly brings to the table much more than could be offered at the old venue although there have been complaints from town-dwellers that it is too far north of the main Stouffville urban hub.
But officials are confident the short drive will be worth it all and stressed that the land on Aurora Road behind the current Ballantrae Tennis Club is the only area that had the sufficient size to handle what was needed and could be built on. Mayor Iain Lovatt also noted that under the current plan, the facility will not cost taxpayers anything this time around.
The Multi-Sport Complex represents a great opportunity for the community, and we are excited to see the positive impact that it will have on the local economy, residents, and sports enthusiasts,” said Mayor Iain Lovatt. “This facility will provide a safe, accessible, and modern space for people of all ages to engage in sports activities and promote a healthy lifestyle even during winter months.”
With one dome coming in at 125,000sq/ft and the smaller one at 50,000 sq/ft, the project will be one of the biggest sports complexes of its kind in the country.
Construction prep will start almost immediately and is targeted to be in operation for residents by fall of this year.
