New township buildings ‘suit country setting’

Roger Varley, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

In a presentation to council on Monday, clerk Debbie Leroux gave a slideshow to illustrate what the new Uxbridge-Scugog animal shelter will look like when finished.

An artistic rendering of what the new Uxbridge-Scugog animal shelter may look like. From uxbridge.ca

The new animal shelter, which has been in the works for decades, could see construction finished in October of this year, with a possible opening soon after, said Leroux. She said that although construction started late last fall, the weather has been a continuing struggle for the contractors. She noted that contractors on the project are from both Uxbridge and Scugog.

The projected design for the building shows that the exterior colours for the roof, cladding, windows, and doors have all been chosen, as the report says, “to suit a country setting.

“Overall, the colours give a simple, welcoming feel that blends in nicely with the natural surroundings and rural landscape. There is a mix of both metal and natural wood products that will ensure durability for years to come.”

Leroux’s report also reviewed how the new shelter is being constructed with insulated concrete forms which helps the efficiency of the heating and cooling systems. Included in the new shelter will be outdoor exercise areas for dogs and cats, with the cats having their very own "catio."

Leroux shared that construction of the shelter is on track timing-wise, and she also said staff is working on developing a new donor campaign.

The new 6,400-square-foot building at 5500 Lake Ridge Road will replace the old shelter currently situated on the outskirts of Port Perry on Reach Street. That old location has only a

2,388 square feet footprint, and no potable water.

An artistic rendering of what the new Uxpool may look like. From uxbridge.ca

Another slideshow came courtesy of recreation director Amanda Ferraro during her update of the progress on the new Uxpool.

Renderings of the new aquatic centre show an eight-lane, 25-metre swimming pool as well as a heated therapy pool. In addition, there will be accommodation for indoor pickleball and basketball.

Ferraro noted the township was unsuccessful in its attempts to obtain several grants, but said that last August the township received a grant of $7.7 million from the province's Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund.

She said construction is expected to begin on April 15 with the overall budget at $16.4 million.

Mayor Dave Barton remarked that that would be less expensive than maintaining the old Uxpool for the next 10 years.

Ferraro said staff is looking at the possibility of offering naming rights for the new centre,

Council approved her report and agreed to have staff look at naming rights.