The Mel Hegland Uniplex was built in 1976. (Derek Cornet/larongeNOW Staff)

By Derek Cornet

aging facility

Uniplex repairs could cost 50 to 75 per cent of new build estimate

Sep 26, 2022 | 4:23 PM

The results of a study examining La Ronge’s Mel Hegland Uniplex and its replacement has been completed.

The facility assessment and feasibility study for a new multi-use facility was complied by RC Strategies for approximately $40,000. It states a new facility consisting of a 1,344-seat arena, indoor running track, four-sheet curling rink and multi-purpose space will cost an estimated $33 million.

The new rink would also include dedicated dressing rooms for the Ice Wolves and other teams, as well as a ticketing and merchandise area.

With the Ice Wolves 10-year average attendance per game at 451 and the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League (SJHL) average at 687, RC Strategies recommends the town pursue an arena with about 1,300 seats. The study notes the SJHL has communicated with the town that pre-existing teams do not need to meet the 2,200 seating capacity threshold for new SJHL franchises.

“Determining the required seating capacity for a new arena in La Ronge will be an important future decision as it will be a primary driver of capital costs and may have some impact on operating costs,” the study states.

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As for the facility assessment, the capital costs associated with bringing the Uniplex up to a safe, modern and functional standard that could sustain use for 10 to 20 years is likely to be at least 50 to 75 per cent of the cost of building a new facility. The building requires an estimated $10,715,000 in repairs over the next 10 years.

In addition, there are $9 million in non-rectifiable repairs and upgrades that were also identified that cannot be undertaken due to building construction and configuration. Given the age of the facility and era in which it was constructed, there is also a high probability of finding other unknown issues that could further escalate costs.

“As the ice arena slab does not appear to have heating systems below the slab soil structure, it is likely that the soil conditions have been compromised (ice bulb), which will prohibit replacement or other development on the existing footprint of the Uniplex until the soil conditions are dealt with,” the study notes.

Moving forward, it is recommended town council develop a funding model and fundraising strategy, as well as engage directly with the Ice Wolves to determine partnership options at a new facility. The town, user groups and other key community partners and stakeholders should also further engage to confirm programmatic aspects of the project, including seating capacity, amenities, potential phasing, and operational models.

“Continue to monitor curling trends and participation levels,” the study states. “Before moving forward with this amenity replacement, ensure that sufficient indicators of future demand and club capacity are adequately demonstrated.”

Town council will discuss the new study Tuesday at a regular meeting. The entire study can be accessed online here.

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derek.cornet@pattisonmedia.com

Twitter: @saskjourno