Wellington North reopening arenas, community centres in stages

KENILWORTH – Wellington North will be reopening its recreational facilities in stages, with ice rentals starting in early October.

A Sept. 25 press release from the township states the municipality’s “gradual approach” to reopening facilities to the public includes ice rentals, hall rentals and in-person programming.

“This … will allow for facilities and our team to adjust and incorporate increased cleaning and sanitizing protocols between rentals and put in place COVID-19 safety and screening protocols,” states the release.

The Arthur and Mount Forest arenas will have ice available beginning in early October for limited pre-scheduled use.

In the first phase of reopening, ice rentals will be offered only to minor sports organizations.

The second phase will offer ice to private rentals and organizations and the third will explore programming opportunities.

The Arthur and Mount Forest community halls and meeting spaces are now open to the public for rentals.

Township officials say “renters can expect a different experience when visiting … community centres,” notably safety measures such as physical distancing and mandatory use of masks and hand sanitizer.

“Rentals of community halls and meeting spaces will be made at the discretion of the township,” officials say.

“We appreciate your cooperation and look forward to welcoming you back.”

All Wellington North municipal facilities were closed to the public by March 16 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the Mount Forest and District Sports Complex, Arthur and Area Community Centre, Arthur and Mount Forest fire halls, Damascus Hall, the Arthur Seniors Hall and the Kenilworth municipal office.