Mayor Jeff Leal is making the case for a new downtown Event Centre, saying the project would help transform Peterborough’s core and position the city as a regional destination for decades to come.
At a media conference Monday, Leal was joined by local business and community leaders to highlight the potential economic and cultural benefits of replacing the aging Peterborough Memorial Centre.
The current facility is 70 years old and nearing the end of its useful life. City staff estimate it would require at least $22 million in maintenance over the next 15 years just to remain operational, with its ability to host modern events expected to decline over time.
Leal said a new facility represents a “generational opportunity” for the city.
“We need to think about the next 70 years of Peterborough — Vision 2096,” Leal said. “A new Event Centre will revitalize our downtown by driving foot traffic and encouraging investment. It will transform our waterfront and stimulate economic growth and development.”
Supporters of the project pointed to the new Canadian Canoe Museum as an example of the impact major cultural infrastructure can have on the region. The museum drew more than 115,000 visitors last year, with roughly two-thirds coming from outside the region, generating an estimated $10.5 million in visitor spending and nearly $7 million in regional GDP, according to the Tourism Regional Economic Impact Model.
Leal said a new Event Centre would have an even greater impact due to its scale and year-round use.
Brenda Whitehead, president and CEO of the Peterborough & the Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce, said the project is about economic competitiveness.
“Aging infrastructure limits our ability to attract major events and stay competitive,” Whitehead said. “A modern events centre strengthens Peterborough’s role as a regional hub while driving the kind of downtown activity that supports businesses across the entire region.”
Nour Mazloum, executive director of the Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area, said the project would be a catalyst for downtown revitalization.
“Facilities like this bring consistent energy, attract visitors, and create the conditions for local businesses to grow and thrive,” Mazloum said. “The DBIA strongly supports moving this project forward.”
Paul Harris-Lowe, a member of the city’s Economic Development Working Group, said modern amenities are key to attracting new investment.
“As businesses in Canada and around the world look to expand, decision-makers are looking for communities with modern facilities and strong quality of life,” Harris-Lowe said. “An event centre Peterborough can be proud of will go a long way to attracting new business.”
City council is expected to continue discussions on the future of the project as part of ongoing capital planning and budget considerations.
(Written by: Jordan Mercier with files from Branden Rushton)
