Clarington celebrates the groundbreaking of the South Bowmanville Recreation Centre

Clarington Mayor Adrian Foster, members of Council, staff, and construction partners were joined with special guests from the Darlington Soccer Club to officially break ground on the South Bowmanville Recreation Centre, with Phase 1 set to open in 2026.

The former Bowmanville Indoor Soccer Centre is evolving into a dynamic multi-sport destination, expanding recreational opportunities for all ages while continuing to serve beloved local sports. With this transformation, Phase 1 will feature:

• A FIFA-sized multi-sport dome with an indoor walking track
• Two FIBA-sized basketball courts adaptable for net sports like pickleball, tennis, and volleyball
• A refrigerated outdoor skating trail designed for year-round events like summer markets
• Multi-purpose rooms for recreational programming like yoga, strength training, kids’ programs, and more
• The current lacrosse bowl will remain on site

“What an incredible milestone this groundbreaking is! We’ve been working towards this for so many years, and now our plans for a South Bowmanville Recreation Centre are becoming very real. I can feel the excitement among our residents for this facility, and it’s truly gratifying to be moving it forward. Kudos to our awesome Clarington Council and staff, whose commitment has made this dream a reality. We’re getting things done, and we’re having a blast while doing it,” said Mayor Foster.

In the years ahead, Phase 2 will add a brand-new Aquatics Centre to meet the needs of Clarington’s swim-loving community and growing demand for space. Additional multi-purpose programming rooms will further enhance wellness opportunities and strengthen community connection.

MJMA Architecture & Design was hired to design the $37-million Phase 1.

Construction includes extensive site improvements including landscaping enhancements, a new road, and an updated intersection on Baseline Road. Access to Clarington Fields will remain open throughout construction, with parking and entry available via Green Road.

Featured image: (L to R) Councillor Lloyd Rang; Councillor Margaret Zwart;  Mayor Adrian Foster; Councillor Sami Elhajjeh; Regional Councillor Granville Anderson; and Regional Councillor Willie Woo officially break ground on the South Bowmanville Recreation Centre. (Municipality of Clarington)