The City of Kamloops has announced intentions to demolish Memorial Arena and the Kamloops Curling Club to build a modern curling and racquet sports facility downtown. This project, part of the Build Kamloops initiative, will span 3.6 acres and may include housing and community amenities. Construction is not expected to start until at least 2030, following the completion of a new arena multiplex.
On January 23, 2026, Kamloops City Council revealed plans to redevelop a 3.6-acre site in the 700 block of Victoria Street, encompassing the existing Memorial Arena, Kamloops Curling Club, and adjacent properties recently purchased by the city. The initiative aims to replace aging infrastructure built in the late 1940s with a vibrant hub for curling, racquet sports like pickleball, squash, and tennis, plus potential fitness spaces, community gathering areas, and housing. This marks the third major project under the Build Kamloops program, aligning with the 2019 Recreation Master Plan's focus on vibrancy and sustainability. Memorial Arena, dedicated on Remembrance Day 1949, has hosted Western Hockey League teams including the Kamloops Blazers until 1992 and remains in use for hockey, ball hockey, and lacrosse. The curling club, opened in December 1949 with expansions in 1964 and 1975, now has eight sheets of ice. Both facilities hold deep historical significance, particularly for veterans and the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 52, which supported their original construction. Build Kamloops Committee Chair Kelly Hall emphasized the project's potential: “This project will replace almost an entire city block into a vibrant hub for active living that integrates curling, racquet sports and has the potential for much more, including fitness space and community gathering areas.” Veterans groups and sports communities have expressed enthusiasm. Kamloops Legion President Mike Young noted, “We recognize the realities of a building constructed in 1949 and we acknowledge it has significant maintenance and accessibility needs. That’s why the Legion supports the city’s efforts to plan for a future facility, one that honours the past while meeting the needs of today and tomorrow.” Curling committee member Brian Windsor added, “We’re now reaching 77 seasons of curling in this building... it is time.” Pickleball Club president Shannon Flannery highlighted the need for indoor courts during winter. The city has initiated engagement with the Legion, Rocky Mountain Rangers, heritage groups, and user communities to incorporate history and memories into the design. A multi-year public consultation process will shape the functional, viable facility. Construction awaits the 2029 opening of the new Dufferin arena multiplex, with no cost estimates yet available. The project is expected to revitalize downtown's east end, supporting national events and active lifestyles.
