A recent inspection of the Clairmont Arena has confirmed that the facility, owned and operated by the Clairmont & District Agricultural Society, will need to remain closed for the 2019/2020 winter recreation season.

“Closing the facility was a difficult decision for us to make as many groups utilize the arena through the winter months,” said Cindy Trudel, President of the Clairmont & District Agricultural Society. “We will continue to work closely with the County as we determine what will be needed to address issues with the building and allow us to re-open the arena in the future.”

On December 3, 2019, the County of Grande Prairie was notified by the Clairmont & District Agricultural Society that the arena was closed until further notice. The Society, which owns and operates the facility, made the decision to close the arena due to potential safety concerns caused by a leaky roof. Affected groups were notified directly and have since received refunds for their arena fees. Most of the displaced groups have found ice elsewhere for the remainder of the season.

“We appreciate the Ag Society’s efforts in working with the displaced user groups as winter programs are very important to our community,” said Reeve Leanne Beaupre. “I would also extend my sincere appreciation to the operators of the other facilities in the region who have come together to help find space for the displaced groups. It is great to see the community collaborate to help ensure these programs can continue until this situation can be resolved.”

The County of Grande Prairie continues to work with the Ag Society regarding the concerns with their facility. On December 9, County Council approved funding of $9,850 to SPA Engineering who completed an engineering study on the arena that month. The results of this report are expected to be presented to Council in early 2020.