Proposed design for large arena and event centre. (City of Prince Albert)

By Dawson Thompson

Proposed Design

City council to consider ‘horseshoe’ design for proposed large arena and event centre

Aug 13, 2021 | 2:34 PM

Prince Albert city council will consider a proposed concept design for the large arena and event centre.

This will be the second phase of the massive project slated to be built just off Highway 3 and Marquis Road in the southeast end of the city. The interior plans for the first phase — the smaller twin arenas and aquatic facility — have yet to be decided.

A report from the Aquatic and Arenas Recreation Project Steering Committee is recommending the approval of the horseshoe level two concept. It will be discussed during Monday afternoon’s council meeting.

According to the recommendation, the horseshoe level two concept is preferred because:

· Most seats are quite close to the floor,

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· Seating is good for concerts because of the amphitheater shape,

· There is minimal seat loss for setting up a stage for concerts,

· There is ample back of house space,

· No parking stalls will be lost with the design,

· It includes the smallest long span distance for the high roof structure which means it is more cost-effective.

Proposed design for large arena and event centre. (City of Prince Albert)

In a media release, Mayor Greg Dionne stated this design is an obvious choice.

“The steering committee heard from the consultants on the proposed design, and it was an obvious choice which option was superior,” Dionne said. “It’s by far the most popular design for similar facilities.”

Ward 6 councilor, Blake Edwards agrees with the mayor and says the design looks to be a positive one, and will attract many guests.

“I think the horseshoe two-level design for the event centre is the right proposal,” Edwards told paNOW. “The consultants seem to be very knowledgeable, and I think they will be the right choice as well.”

Many things were crucial for him to see in the proposal.

“To have seating as close as possible to whatever sport is being played is a key factor to create the best possible atmosphere,” Edwards said. “Minimal seating loss is also important as well. We need to have as many seats as possible to host some of the larger bands we want to attract.

“I think the users of the facility will be very happy with their experience while attending any event and that is something we need (is) to be able to host any event, no matter the size.”

If the proposed design is approved by city council, the next step will be a schematic design where more detail will be developed for the layout of the whole facility.

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Dawson.thompson@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @dawsonthompson8