Brantford City Council Approves Next Phase for Sports and Entertainment Centre

BRANTFORD, ON: In a unanimous decision, Brantford City Council has approved a staff report outlining a summary of community feedback and recommendations to enter Phase Three, signaling a pivotal step forward in the development of the Brantford Sports and Entertainment Centre. The approval includes a recommendation to formally consider the project as a priority for the City, along with authority to proceed with a Request for Business Partnerships process, site due diligence, and retaining professional support services.

The development of the Sports and Entertainment Centre aligns with key Council priorities, focusing on productive and collaborative partnerships and the commitment to downtown revitalization. It is also in line with the City’s Economic Development Strategy (2016), Parks and Recreation Master Plan (2018), Municipal Sport Tourism Strategy (2019), and the City's Official Plan: Envisioning our City: 2051.

Benefits to Local Economy and Downtown Revitalization

The approval follows a series of steps by the City, starting with the relocation of the OHL team, the Brantford Bulldogs, to the Civic Centre. Since then, the City has witnessed a surge in civic pride, downtown development, and economic growth. The proposed Sports and Entertainment Centre, strategically located at 79 Market Street South, is expected to be a catalyst for further economic development, with a projected total direct economic impact of $4.3 million annually.

Throughout the decision-making process, the City has prioritized collaboration and engagement, seeking feedback from the community through various channels. The recent community engagement campaign conducted in December 2023 saw overwhelming support for the project, with approximately 80.7% of respondents expressing a positive outlook on the initiative. This strong endorsement is reflected in the survey findings, demonstrating broad community support for the project. 

Next Steps and Implementation Plan

With Council's endorsement, the City is set to move forward with the Request for Business Partnerships process, preparatory site due diligence, and other key activities outlined in the six-phase implementation plan. Key decision points and milestones will require Council consideration and direction at various stages, ensuring transparency and accountability throughout the project's development.   

Mayor Kevin Davis expressed enthusiasm, stating, "This project is not just about a sports and entertainment centre; it's about building a vibrant and thriving community, anchored by the city’s downtown. We look forward to the next phase of this exciting journey and continuing to work collaboratively with our residents to make Brantford a primary destination for sports and entertainment."

The City anticipates initiating a public fundraising campaign, engaging the community in shaping the facility's design, and ultimately issuing the construction tender.

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Media Contact:

Maria Visocchi - Director, Communications, Community Engagement and Customer Service
City of Brantford | 519.751.9900 ext. 5754 | mvisocchi@brantford.ca
 

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