Fire breaks out at sports and recreation centre in Midland

Heavy smoke and flames can be seen coming from the North Simcoe Sports and Recreation Centre in Midland on May 27, 2025. (Town of Penetanguishene Fire Dept.)

Heavy smoke and flames can be seen coming from the North Simcoe Sports and Recreation Centre in Midland on Tuesday.

Just before 11 a.m., fire crews responded to a reported vehicle fire at the the sports rec centre located on Len Self Boulevard. Ontario Provincial Police, Simcoe County Paramedics, and Penetanguishene Fire arrived to brave the scene.

Upon arrival, fire crews found a tar pod that had overflowed and ignited near the outside of the building.

Contractors say they attempted to extinguish the fire using portable extinguishers, activated the facility’s fire alarm system, and called police.

Fire crews quickly brought the fire under control.

Officials say smoke filled the facility prompting crews to conduct ventilation operations to clear the affected areas. The fire has been contained to the roofing equipment only.

As a precaution, all visitors were taken to a different area of the building for the remainder of the day.

No injuries were reported in the midst of this blaze. Officials say several pieces of equipment sustained damage after they came in contact with the hot tar.

The fire has been deemed accidental. The estimated dollar loss is still being assessed, according to officials.