DARRYL KNIGHT The Standard
BROCK: At their meeting on Monday, February 3rd, Brock Township councillors received an update on the Sunderland Arena Renovation and Expansion Project and approved moving forward with a revised design aimed at bringing the project within budget. The report, jointly presented by CAO Michelle Willson, Director of Finance/Treasurer Trena DeBruijn, and Director of Parks, Recreation & Facilities Wayne Ward, recommended sole sourcing architectural services to Barry Bryan Associates (BBA) to obtain a Class B estimate for the modified plan.
The Descope and Design Committee, formed in collaboration with the Sunderland Lions Club, has been working since May 2024 to refine the project’s scope. The original plan, which included expanding the ice surface to 80 by 200 feet and adding six new dressing rooms, proved financially unfeasible, with estimates exceeding $15 million. The revised plan instead proposes a 190-foot ice surface, a 78-foot width, and four new dressing rooms—two of which will be fully accessible for sledge hockey.
“This has been a challenging process, but we believe the revised design will still meet the needs of the community while keeping the project financially viable,” said Ms. Willson. “Our priority is to ensure the arena remains a long-term asset for the Township.”
A Class C cost estimate completed in December 2024 indicated the revised plan was still over budget, prompting the need for a more detailed Class B estimate. To proceed, the Township has requested approval for up to $430,000 for architectural services. Council approved the sole sourcing of these services to BBA, given the firm’s extensive history with the project.
“Bringing in a new architectural firm at this stage would mean starting from scratch and reviewing all existing drawings, which would delay the project and increase costs,” explained Mr. Ward. “Working with BBA ensures continuity and efficiency.”
The revised budget for the project is set at $10.2 million, with contributions from various sources, including a $1 million commitment from the Sunderland Lions Club. The Lions have pledged $500,000 at the project’s start and another $500,000 upon completion, though the latter amount still requires fundraising. Should the Lions need additional time to meet this goal, the Township has proposed an interest-free loan from the Sunderland Arena Reserve to bridge any shortfall.
“Our club is committed to this project and to ensuring the community has a high-quality facility,” said Sunderland Lions Club representative Don Gordon. “We’re confident in our ability to raise the funds needed and appreciate the Township’s support.”
Council’s approval allows BBA to move forward with detailed drawings, which will facilitate further cost adjustments and ensure the project remains within budget. The Township will continue to update residents on progress through its website and a joint communication with the Sunderland Lions Club.
With the arena closed for renovations, the improvements—including updated electrical, plumbing, refrigeration systems, and a newly repaired roof—are expected to extend the facility’s lifespan significantly.
“This project is a major investment in the future of our community,” said Regional Councillor Mike Jubb. “While there are still challenges ahead, we are committed to making this project a reality.”
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