South Frontenac Township celebrated the reopening of the newly expanded Storrington Centre on Thursday, February 23rd. The event was attended by South Frontenac Council, staff, dignitaries and community members who gathered to recognize the Centre’s expansion and reopening.
Located at 3910 Battersea Road in Sunbury, the Storrington Centre is one of the largest and most used halls in the Township. The expansion has increased its size by over a third, resulting in 4,300 square feet of meeting space, including new features such as outdoor patio space and double doors that open up for indoor/outdoor use. The renovation also included the installation of new energy-efficient LED lighting and heating/cooling equipment.
“The Storrington Centre is an important community hub and gathering place,” said Mayor Ron Vandewal at the reopening ceremony. “This expansion is just one of many projects in South Frontenac that will enhance access to programs, services, and events to continue to make South Frontenac a vibrant, progressive and growing rural leader.”
The Centre hosts a variety of community groups and residents of all ages, from EarlyON programs where parents can meet and kids can play in a safe, indoor place to seniors’ groups, wellness programs, Open Mic groups, and social groups. Several community groups who use the Centre regularly gave guests in attendance a glimpse into a “week in the life of the Storrington Centre” through presentations and performances.
The renovation of the Storrington Centre was funded by the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario), through the Canada Community Revitalization Fund (CCRF). The Township received a Government of Canada investment of $432,309 for the project. The fund was launched to help communities across Canada build and improve community infrastructure projects so they can rebound from the effects of the pandemic, assist with community vitality, support social and economic cohesion and help reanimate communities.
“Community centres and meeting spaces are important for rural municipalities in southern Ontario. Enhancing halls, like the Storrington Centre, offers space for people to learn, grow and work together for the betterment of their towns,” said the Honorable Filomena Tassi, Minister responsible for FedDev Ontario. “This investment will connect the residents of South Frontenac, enhance the visitor experience and lead to community growth.”
The renovation was designed by Kingston architect Mikaela Hughes, and the work was completed by Jeffrey G. Wallans Construction Ltd. at an estimated cost of $563,079.
The Storrington Centre will host the South Frontenac Recreation and Leisure Fair on Saturday, March 25th, from 10 am to 2 pm. The event will provide an opportunity for local sports and community groups to showcase activities and recreational opportunities in the Township.
“We are grateful for the funding provided by the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario for this capital project,” said Mayor Ron Vandewal. “This expansion will ensure the community has a safe and accessible space to gather, celebrate, learn, play, and grow for years to come.”
Photo (submitted): Members of South Frontenac Township Council officially open the newly renovated Storrington Centre on Battersea Road. Pictured from left to right, CAO Louise Fragnito, Councillor Steve Pegrum, Councillor Norm Roberts, Mayor Ron Vandewal, Deputy Mayor Ron Sleeth, Councillor Ray Leonard
