Back to SearchInnisfil, ON – The Town of Innisfil is providing an update on the Stroud Innisfil Community Centre following Council approval of immediate repair work and advancement of long-term planning for the future of the facility.
At its recent meeting, Council authorized funding through the Town’s Capital Reserve Fund to address the urgent facility needs that prompted the unexpected closure of the arena and banquet hall on January 20. The issue was identified through routine inspection and assessment processes, and while the facility receives ongoing maintenance, aging infrastructure continues to present complex repair needs.
Following a detailed report from an independent engineer, remediation includes new structural supports, repairs to the interior window on the main floor, and associated restoration work. As is common in facilities of this age, the building is considered a designated substances site, meaning repairs will require specialized abatement procedures along with replacement of affected flooring, ceilings, and finishes.
Timelines for construction remain difficult to predict due to the complexity of the work and the steps required before and after repairs. Until greater certainty on timelines is available:
- Stroud summer camps and recreation programs will be moved to alternative locations
- 2026/27 ice bookings may be delayed for the Stroud arena
- Banquet hall bookings will not be available throughout the summer
User groups and residents will be advised as more information becomes available.
The Stroud Innisfil Community Centre has been considered through multiple master plans. With Council’s endorsement, staff are accelerating the Stroud Innisfil Community Centre Business Case & Site Study to incorporate existing data, operational and financial impacts, community consultation, and preliminary conceptual designs. This process will support long-term decisions about continued maintenance or redevelopment of the facility.
Despite current challenges, the Stroud Innisfil Community Centre continues to be a deeply valued community asset. The arena has been nominated for the 2026 Kraft Hockeyville award, which recognizes the importance of local arenas and community spirit across Canada. Each provincial and territorial winner receives $50,000 toward arena upgrades, with the opportunity for additional funding if selected among the Top 2 nationally. Community members are encouraged to participate in this campaign, which ends on March 1.
“The Stroud arena has long been a place for sport, gathering, celebration, learning, community connection, and so much more,” says Mayor Lynn Dollin. “The Hockeyville nomination is a chance for residents to share their memories, photos, and support for why this arena matters. Winning takes a community effort, and I encourage everyone to rally behind Stroud and help tell its story.”
The Town recognizes the impact this closure has on residents and user groups; however, it is imperative that these structural issues are addressed to ensure the facility can safely return to operation. Further updates will be shared on the Town’s website and social media as work progresses.
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