The Town of Carleton Place is inviting residents to help plan the proposed new recreation facility slated for McEachen Drive, south of Highway 7. A public consultation is set for Thursday, Aug. 6, at the Carleton Place Arena’s large upper hall.
The town says the project represents a significant opportunity for residents to create a new community space that could include a pool, gymnasium, walking track, therapeutic pool, fitness areas, community rooms and other family-friendly recreational features.
According to Diana Knight, director of Community Services, while most of the town’s current facilities are able to accommodate growth for the next 10 to 15 years, that is not the case for its aquatic facilities.
“The aquatic facilities are approaching their end of life or a little beyond. The pool is in an accelerated deterioration phase, and that’s why we’re pursuing this project,” said Knight.
Residents, businesses and community organizations are encouraged to weigh in on what they believe should be included in the facility and which amenities should be given priority.
The public consultation will be held from 4 to 8 p.m. in the large upper hall at the Carleton Place Arena. Staff from the Community Services Department’s Property and Projects Division will host the public consultation to answer any questions and gather ideas about the kind of recreational spaces and services residents would like incorporated into the facility.
Knight said decisions made during the planning process will help determine how the facility serves the community for years to come.
For those unable to attend in person, an online survey is also available and will remain open until 8 a.m. on Monday, Aug. 17.
The town describes the project as a “once-in-a-generation opportunity” to create a space where residents can play, learn, connect and stay active, and says community feedback will be an important part of determining what ultimately moves forward.
Residents are being asked to consider not only their own recreational needs, but also those of their families, neighbours and the broader community.
The feedback gathered through the public consultation and online survey will help guide future recommendations and decisions about the facility.
There is no exact timeline yet for when construction will begin.
“Timelines will vary, but certainly if we can access certain grant opportunities and we do have the budget, we would be looking to probably complete this project within the five-year horizon,” said Knight.
Public Consultation
Thursday, Aug. 6, 2026
4 to 8 p.m.
Carleton Place Arena, Large Upper Hall
75 Neelin St.
Carleton Place
Online Survey
Available until 8 a.m. Monday, Aug. 17, 2026
carletonplace.ca/new-recreation-facility-public-consultation
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