Barrie council backs $375M south-end multi-use complex after some tweaks to the plan

A new $375 million sports and library complex got the thumbs up at Barrie council.

Barrie city councillors took another step forward with plans for a $375 million south-end recreation and library complex at Wednesday night’s meeting, but not without making a few tweaks first.

While most of the changes were modest, a few stood out, particularly a decision to scale back the size of the library component.

The facility, which will eventually be built on a 100-acre site along McKay Road East, is being described by councillors as a game-changer for the city’s fast-growing south-end.

The centre will include a quad-pad arena, an eight-lane 25-metre swimming pool, therapy pools, a triple gymnasium, a fitness centre, and multi-purpose rooms.

“I just wanted to emphasize how well received this has been in south-end Barrie,” said Councillor Bryn Hamilton during the meeting.

Library Space

One of the more notable amendments saw the planned library space reduced from 45,000 square feet to 30,000 square feet. Council also directed staff to explore shared-use options for certain amenities, like washrooms, rather than constructing separate facilities for rec centre workers.

Councillor Sergio Morales said the reduction wasn’t a statement on the importance of library services overall. “Just because we’re reducing here specifically, it’s not indicative of library need in general.”

Sports Hall of Fame

Another amendment will establish a permanent space inside the complex for Barrie’s Sports Hall of Fame, currently housed at the Sadlon Arena.

Councillor Gary Harvey supported the move, saying it would have more exposure at the new site. “It’s going to have a lot more foot traffic than what the Sadlon [Arena] will ever see.”

Housing Development

Council also gave the green light to a related housing development in the south end, rezoning a property near Essa Road and Mapleview Drive to allow for 458 street and block townhouse units, with an additional 66 optional dwellings for future purchasers.

The revised proposal was given council’s stamp of approval after a troubled first pitch.

“The first application was basically creating a small city within one stretch of about 25-acres,” said Harvey. “Thankfully, a new applicant came in, but I think this is going to be a very positive addition to the area, opposed to having an empty field or a driving range at this location.”

The recreational complex and all its amenities were passed by council, with construction still years away.