New Community Centre to Replace Old One in Pickering

With the $65 million Dorsay Community & Heritage Centre ready to open its doors in the spring, the aging Greenwood Community Centre – located just a few hundred metres away – is set for demolition as Pickering’s Executive Committee approved a plan for ‘remediation and demolition’ on Monday.

The city has contracted Barry Bryan Associates for professional consulting services and related costs necessary for this project, after they won out of 15 bidders.

The winning proposal was just under $61,000 from a total project budget of $149,000, with permits and approvals, surveys, testing, and inspections making up most of the remaining expenses.

The new Dorsay Community & Heritage Centre will be situated on the upper site of the Pickering Museum Village and is expected to replace the Greenwood facility that was built in 1970.

Councillor David Pickles asked committee staff if arrangements have been made for Greenwood users during the time between demolition and when the new community centre opens. He was assured that all events and activities have been accommodated at other facilities.

“It will be a smooth transition,” Pickles was told.

Greenwood Community Centre spans 8,400 sq. ft. over two stories and is constructed from concrete block and steel framing. At 55 years old, it is in poor condition, does not meet accessibility standards, and has inefficient energy performance due to its age and design.

Dorsay Community & Heritage Centre – which includes a $1 million naming rights agreement secured by the local developer earlier this year – will feature various amenities such as:

exhibit gallery multi-purpose hall kitchen suitable for public programs Library Express Kiosk and Local History Experience Centre collections storage gift shop outdoor program spaces

Thanks to its unique architecture and scenic location, this facility will also offer private rental options like weddings, celebrations, corporate events, and other significant occasions. It aims to be a central point for future residents of these developing neighborhoods while fostering community engagement and cultural activities in the area.

“Our residents will be blown away by the new facility,” Pickles said.