Ontario Construction News staff writer
WHITBY – Construction on Whitby’s Fieldgate Sports Complex has reached major milestones as work moves into the finishing phase, bringing the facility closer to a 2026 opening.
The town’s new recreation hub will feature Durham’s largest pool, a twin-pad arena, a multi-purpose gymnasium and other amenities for residents of all ages and abilities. Ledcor Group, a major Canadian construction firm, is serving as the project’s general contractor, overseeing the build and coordinating trades, safety, and sustainability standards.
“This facility has truly been built by the community, for the community to support Whitby’s growth with inclusive, accessible, and flexible spaces that will serve residents for generations,” said Matt Gaskell, chief administrative officer, Town of Whitby. “Thank you to the staff and project teams working hard each day to bring this vision to life. We’re nearly there and look forward to announcing an opening date in the coming months.”
Key construction updates include:
- Roofing and stonework: Complete, with hundreds of solar panels supporting Whitby’s LEED Gold and Zero Carbon Building goals.
- Arenas: 90 per cent complete, including radiant heating in seating; rink boards and painting expected by May.
- Exterior panels: 80 per cent complete; full completion expected in March.
- Gymnasium: 80 per cent complete; drywall and painting underway, flooring installation scheduled for March.
- Lobby: 70 per cent complete, including accessibility ramp; flooring expected in May.
- Aquatics area: 65 per cent complete; waterproofing underway, tiling to begin in March.
The project was shaped by input from nearly 3,000 residents and community partners. Earlier this year, local hockey, court and swim organizations toured the facility. Their reactions will be shared in short videos on the town’s social media channels.
Chief Administrative Officer Matt Gaskell said the facility has been “built by the community, for the community” and will provide inclusive, flexible spaces for generations.
As the complex nears completion, Whitby is preparing to move local ice sports from Luther Vipond Memorial Arena to the new facility and other town venues. A final community skate at Luther Vipond is scheduled for March 15 from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. More information is available at connectwhitby.ca/LutherVipond.
“Seeing the construction reach this stage – and hearing directly from the sports groups who are excited to use the space – makes it even more real. We can’t wait to open this facility to the community later this year,” said Whitby Mayor Elizabeth Roy.
The facility is located on the west side of Baldwin Street South, just south of Highway 407. Outdoor amenities will include lit pickleball, tennis and basketball courts, Whitby’s first multi-purpose artificial turf field, a skatepark, a pump track and other recreation spaces.
