The Township of Georgian Bluffs is reaching out to seek input on a proposal regarding the Derby Community Centre to convert the arena space to indoor turf.

As one of three community facilities operated by the Township, the Derby Community Centre in Kilsyth serves as a vital hub for local gatherings and recreational activities. Formerly a natural ice arena, the facility has been repurposed to meet the evolving needs of the community, featuring a concrete arena floor and a second-floor space equipped with meeting rooms and kitchen facilities.

The Township has recently been approached by Ontario Sport Development (OSD), a private company specializing in sports facility management and development. OSD has expressed keen interest in assuming the operation of the Derby Community Centre and adding an indoor artificial turf to the arena floor.

Artificial turf can be used for various sports groups, including soccer, lacrosse, and baseball, as well as other activities such as field hockey and ultimate frisbee. Artificial turf installations come with higher initial costs, which may result in higher hourly rates for usage or the need for subsidies and may affect current arena users such as Roller Derby.

OSD has offered to assume the operation of the Derby Community Centre for a minimum period of 10 years. Their previous collaborations include indoor and outdoor turf programs in several communities, such as Brampton, Mississauga, Alliston, Barrie, and most recently, Angus.

The Township of Georgian Bluffs invites you to contribute your thoughts and perspectives on this proposal for the Derby Community Centre by completing a short survey at www.engageGB.ca. A drop-in session will be hosted where community members can speak to staff and share their comments on Monday, August 28th between 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM at the Arena. Your feedback will inform the Township's decision-making process and help shape the future of this community facility.

source: media release, Township of Georgian Bluffs