Local News

New Community Centre Opens in Dartmouth's North End

The newly renovated facility aims to serve youth and seniors with a focus on accessibility, recreation, and community development programs.

Published: May 12, 2025 at 22:11

By: By Justin Anderson, Great White Press

Residents of Dartmouth’s North End gathered in celebration this week as the newly renovated Community Centre officially opened its doors. The facility, which underwent a $4.2 million transformation, now includes expanded recreational spaces, updated accessibility features, and new programming tailored to diverse age groups.

Mayor Lydia Armstrong and local councillors were on hand for the ribbon-cutting ceremony, joined by dozens of community members and youth groups. “This building is more than bricks and mortar—it’s a hub for connection and support,” the mayor said in her opening remarks.

The centre now features a multi-purpose gymnasium, senior-friendly fitness studio, tech lab, and an arts and crafts room designed to host workshops and after-school programs. Staff noted the design reflects input gathered during a series of public consultations held in 2023.

One of the standout additions is a commercial-grade kitchen that will be used for nutrition classes and community cooking nights. Local nonprofit groups say this space will help tackle food insecurity by hosting meal prep events and cultural cooking demonstrations.

Residents praised the thoughtful upgrades, particularly the widened doorways, tactile signage, and all-gender accessible washrooms. “It’s clear they listened,” said Pauline Chen, who has lived in the area for 15 years and uses a mobility scooter.

Programming at the centre is already underway, including drop-in sports, digital literacy courses for seniors, and weekly community dinners. Staff are also launching a mentorship program connecting youth with local business leaders and tradespeople.

Funding for the renovation came from a mix of municipal, provincial, and federal grants, along with community fundraising efforts. A plaque at the entrance honors the dozens of volunteers and donors who contributed time and resources over the past two years.

The Community Centre is open daily from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., and all programs for the first month are being offered free of charge to encourage community engagement. “This is your space,” said facility coordinator Lorne Deveau. “We can’t wait to see how you use it.”