The City of Grande Prairie invites residents to submit stories, photos and memories until September 8, 2023 to celebrate the Leisure Centre’s impact on our community ahead of its scheduled demolition. Submissions can be made on the City’s engagement website at engage.cityofgp.com/leisurecentre.

The Leisure Centre was built in 1976 and featured a swimming pool, fitness center and the Johnny MacDonald Arena. The facility served as a regional hub for local tournaments, swim meets and other programs and services for over 30 years.

It was Grande Prairie's primary indoor recreation facility for many years until the opening of the Eastlink Centre in 2011. The Leisure Centre aquatics centre has since closed its doors while the Johnny MacDonald Arena operated as an indoor soccer pitch from 2012 to 2022.

The Leisure Centre was also home of the Alberta Summer Games Office in July 2018.

Due to structural issues with the facility, City Council approved the full demolition of the Leisure Centre, including the soccer pitch, at a Council Meeting held in the summer of 2021. The demolition will take place in conjunction with the old Composite High School and is set to begin this summer.