A future mixed-use recreation complex has been announced for south-east Barrie, set to be developed on a 100-acre site near McKay Road East and Huronia Road. Barrie city council expropriated the property in April.
The facility is expected to be the largest of its kind in the city, featuring four ice rinks, an eight lane 25-metre pool, seven leisure and therapy pools, a triple gymnasium, multi-use play fields, community gathering spaces, and a new public library branch. Ample parking will also be included to support the wide range of amenities.
Barrie Mayor Alex Nuttall, along with local city councillors Sergio Morales and Nigussie Nigussie, unveiled the site with a ceremonial sign to mark the announcement.
“This is more than just a building — it’s a place where kids will learn to swim, families will spend time together, and young people will grow through sport, play, and connection,” Nuttall said.
He emphasized the scale of the project, noting that the 100-acre site far exceeds the size of Barrie’s existing recreation centres, such as the East Bayfield Community Centre on 18 acres and the Peggy Hill Team Community Centre on 19 acres.
“The land gives us the ability to build a modern, multi-use centre with space for high-quality amenities and a new regional library – all designed with families in mind,” he said.
A south-east rec centre has been a long time coming. Originally proposed nearly two decades ago, the initial plan involved a 13-acre site on Yonge Street. Coun. Morales expressed satisfaction that the project is finally moving forward.
“Eighteen years was far too long,” Morales said.
“It’s fulfilling to know future generations will grow up with access to the kinds of facilities that promote both personal fitness and mental well-being.”
The new complex will be strategically located between the Salem and Hewitt growth areas — two of Barrie’s fastest-growing neighbourhoods. It will also benefit from its close proximity to the future Highway 400 interchange at McKay Road.
Although a construction start date has not yet been announced, Nuttall confirmed that the city has been collecting development charges over the past several years to help fund the project.
