Barrie city council has taken a major step toward building a new performing arts centre on the downtown waterfront, approving the project’s schematic design and allocating additional funding for its development.
Council approved $455,000 for Hariri Pontarini Architects to refine the vision for the proposed facility and provide a detailed construction estimate.
The centre is planned for the Sea Cadets parade ground along Simcoe Street, near Maple Avenue, and is now estimated to cost nearly $65 million. The 45,000-square-foot facility would feature large and small performance venues seating 600 and 250 people, respectively. It would also include a flexible rehearsal space, a multipurpose room, and serve as a convention space.
Other features include a waterfront restaurant seating approximately upwards of 75 guests, a lobby, backstage and production areas, a main entrance with a drop-off zone, loading bays, and an outdoor space for visitors. The iconic Spirit Catcher sculpture, currently located across from Maple Avenue near a public parking lot, will likely be relocated closer to Simcoe Street.
Mayor Alex Nuttall called this step a significant milestone.
“This is a major milestone for Barrie. The new performing arts centre will be a cornerstone of our city’s cultural and economic future,” he said.
“It will be a state-of-the-art facility that reflects the vibrancy, talent, and creativity of our community. It will provide a home for local artists and performers while attracting thousands of visitors from across the province — creating meaningful benefits for our downtown businesses and restaurants.”
He emphasized that the centre will help lift local tourism and strengthen the economy.
“This will further drive economic growth and solidify our position as a destination city,” he said.
“With the schematic design approved, residents can expect continued momentum as we move into the next phases. The centre will also serve as a much-needed convention space, enabling Barrie to host conferences, events, and gatherings that were previously out of reach.”
Ward 3 Coun. Ann-Marie Kungl agreed the centre will enhance tourism.
“The addition of a performing arts theatre will absolutely bring in a new tourism element, while providing a space designed to meet acoustical needs and offer much-needed accessible rehearsal space,” she said.
“We see people travel for theatre experiences – whether to Toronto, Niagara, or Stratford. A theatre is a critical component that supports artists and ensures the public can access a wide range of performing arts.”
The concept of a waterfront performing arts centre was first proposed in a 2024 report by retired local lawyer Marshall Green. Titled The Southshore, Barrie Sports and a Revitalized Downtown, the report recommended building the facility near the current location of the Spirit Catcher.
