Kawartha Lakes advances Cultural Centre Feasibility Study to next phase

Kawartha Lakes – At the November 5, 2024 Committee of the Whole meeting, staff and consultants from Giaimo Architecture Inc. updated Council on the completed Phase 2 Cultural Centre Feasibility Study. This project is moving closer to establishing a new cultural hub that will serve as a vibrant centre for arts, innovation, and community engagement. The findings highlight the project’s progress, including community consultations, site selection, and governance planning.

"The success of this project really comes down to the collaborative spirit behind it. Bringing together different perspectives has enriched our discussions and truly shaped the progress we've made. Reaching this milestone is incredibly exciting and inspiring for the cultural community,” remarked Donna Goodwin, Economic Development Officer – Arts and Culture.

During Phase 2, the Cultural Centre Task Force guided the extensive research and community outreach undertaken to determine the needs, preferred locations, and operational structure for the proposed facility. Over twelve sites were reviewed, and three potential sites in Lindsay shortlisted. Each option considered both new construction and adaptive reuse of existing structures, prioritizing functionality, accessibility, curb appeal, and alignment with local culture and heritage needs.

The study also proposes a hybrid governance model, to foster a collaborative management system for the facility. Task Force members emphasized the centre’s flexibility in design and programming, essential for engaging a broad audience, including residents, seasonal visitors and tourists. The estimated market reach of the facility is approximately 250,000 people.

Phase 3 will involve property acquisition, final design work, and establishing the cultural centre’s operational and funding structures. This phase will also include a fundraising campaign to support the construction and future programming of the centre.

Community members are encouraged to stay informed by signing up to receive notifications through our Jump In engagement platform as we move forward with this transformative project that promises to enrich the region’s cultural landscape and support economic growth. Final reporting for Phase 2 will be submitted in December 2024, with further updates to follow.

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