Local community urges support as Blackstock Arena faces key decisions

DARRYL KNIGHT Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for The Standard

SCUGOG: The future of the Blackstock Arena is once again in question, as Council reviewed a staff update on the aging facility’s refrigeration system and necessary building repairs, during a special meeting, on Wednesday, July 9th.

Chief Administrative Officer, Warren Mar presented the latest report, following Council’s direction last month, to explore both permanent refrigeration options and backup plans, should the current system fail during the 2025–2026 ice season. The present system is a more than 60-year-old Freon-based refrigeration unit.

The arena, home to the growing Blackstock Minor Hockey Association, remains at risk of mid-season closure, if the existing plant fails.

“This system was already used when we purchased it, and there’s no guarantee it will make it through another full season,” Mr. Mar told councillors. “If repairs aren’t effective or the unit seizes, there will be no ice in Blackstock. We’ll need to be prepared for that possibility.”

The update confirmed, the current system cannot be replaced before the end of the upcoming season. The earliest installation timeline, even for a temporary portable ammonia system, would be mid-February of 2026. A more permanent solution, capable of servicing an NHL-sized pad, is still pending a full quote from refrigeration contractor CIMCO, expected later this month.

The uncertainty surrounding the arena sparked a passionate plea from, Blackstock Minor Hockey’s, Mike Blakey, who addressed Council, during the meeting.

“Our association has seen steady growth, over the past three seasons, since coming back from the Covid shutdown,” Mr. Blakey said. “We’ve got nearly 200 kids enrolled, and our goal is to get back to over 350, like we had before Covid. Families choose Blackstock, they know it’s close to home, it’s affordable, and it builds community.”

Mr. Blakey warned, losing access to the Blackstock Arena would force families to look at more costly programs in Port Perry, Uxbridge, or Manvers.

“We’re not just talking about a building,” he added. “We’re talking about a place where kids learn teamwork, confidence, and how to be part of something bigger than themselves. Losing this ice would be devastating.”

Council also heard two previously approved capital projects, one for the arena and another for the adjacent Blackstock Community Hall, set to proceed in 2025. However, with the arena’s future uncertain, staff will now prioritize only urgent repairs there, including mould removal and fixing failing cooling tower supports. The majority of the $90,000, allocated for the arena project, will be held pending further decisions.

Work on the Community Hall roof and structure will continue, as planned, with its $360,000 budget.

A full report, including a permanent refrigeration system quote and potential electrical upgrades, will be brought to Council this autumn, to help determine the arena’s future.

In the meantime, ice user groups will be advised of the risk, as the plant may fail during the season, a scenario which would result in a complete shutdown of the facility.

“We’re ready to be part of the solution,” said Mr. Blakey. “Blackstock Minor Hockey is willing to work with the Township, however we can to help keep this facility running, for our kids and for our community.”