Arts Strategy back on Council’s radar

It’s why the city recently commissioned a study of the local arts scene intending to provide a roadmap to develop arts and culture as a civic priority. That would be a major achievement, says Farrell.

“What I would really like to see the City move forward to right away is work on the civic precinct, the civic core planning, specific to areas around the Conference and Civic Centre where the former Four Seasons Pool is, the old fire station, et cetera, et cetera,” says Farrell. “That could be an amazing asset for the City.”

In fact, the 106-page report sets out the deficiencies of existing arts venues in terms of capacity and location outside of the downtown. Even more significant is the Conference and Civic Centre, which has reached its useful capacity. It sets out a concert hall at the former Four Seasons, complete with renderings.

But the report was released at a bad time and there has been no public consultation.

“It literally was released in a draft form at the start of the pandemic and the initial shutdown” explains Farrell. “A lot of things have happened here in the city. We’ve had some economic issues that need to be addressed. Short-term and long-term. There’s been a change in administration at City Hall and we’re moving up to an election, too, so there could be a shift in priorities.”

by Cheryl Jahn

Arts Strategy back on Council’s radar

What's Trending