Proposed 2000-seat NHL rink expansion in Maple Ridge

Proposed Expansion of Albion Fairgrounds Arena Complex in Maple Ridge

A major expansion of the Albion Fairgrounds’ arena complex in northeast Metro Vancouver is proposed to meet the growing demand for ice sports, community recreation, and large-scale events in Maple Ridge.

The City of Maple Ridge plans to construct two new NHL-sized ice rinks next to the existing arena building at the fairgrounds.

The new rinks will be built south of the existing ice complex. This will connect to current circulation areas, creating operational efficiencies. The expansion will add about 114,000 sq. ft. of building area, replacing a vehicle parking lot and open grassy areas.

Current Arena Complex Details

The existing complex was first built in 1998 and expanded in 2003. It includes two NHL-sized ice rinks operated by Planet Ice, in partnership with the municipal government, and the Golden Ears Winter Club curling rink.

Planet Ice’s rinks have a 90 percent utilization rate. The primary rink, Cam Neely Arena, has seating for 1,200 spectators, while the second rink holds 125 spectators. The facility is nearing an age that requires major renewal.

Future Expansion Plans

The new expansion will include one arena for community use with 100 to 200 spectator seats. The second arena will be the main arena of the complex, supporting high-capacity events.

This main arena will seat 2,000 spectators in a wrap-around, bowl-style configuration. It will also feature an indoor elevated running/walking track overlooking the ice, similar to the indoor track at the University of British Columbia’s Recreation Centre North. A media booth will also be included.

This arena will be the largest spectator-capacity arena built in the Lower Mainland since the late 2000s.

Additional Features and Parking

The expanded complex will have a spacious lobby, skate shop, multipurpose rooms, and a concession area.

The plan includes 340 new paved parking stalls to support increased use. Existing features will be adjusted, relocating the horse riding ring and moving the off-leash dog park.

Site Selection and Approval Process

The fairgrounds is a civic hub, hosting events like the Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows Country Fest and Caribbean Festival. The city considered Hammond Community Park for the new arenas but found it lacked space for an arena.

Studies showed that adding an arena at Hammond would create traffic and parking challenges. Therefore, the fairgrounds was chosen as the best site for the new arenas.

Regulatory Approval and Future Steps

The fairgrounds are on protected agricultural land. The City is working with the Agricultural Land Commission (ALC) for approval of expanded non-farm use. In 2023, the ALC conditionally approved a feasibility study for one additional ice sheet.

A revised application for two additional ice sheets was not approved in October 2025 due to drainage concerns. City staff are reviewing the ALC’s decision and recommending further technical work to address these concerns.

Another revised application for the current proposal is under review, requiring approval before detailed design can proceed.

City’s Commitment and Future Plans

Valoree Richmond, director of facilities, parks, and properties for the City of Maple Ridge, expressed confidence in managing stormwater and improving drainage.

In December 2025, Maple Ridge City Council approved recommendations from a feasibility study by HCMA. This study included designs for the new ice rinks, an aquatic and community center at Hammond Community Park, and a transformation of the Maple Ridge Golf Course into a public park.

The City plans to develop a funding strategy and refine designs for these projects in the first half of 2026. Recent public consultations showed strong support for all three projects.

Maple Ridge Mayor Dan Ruimy stated, “This will be the City’s largest investment ever in recreation infrastructure.” He noted that the population is expected to increase by about 40 percent over the next 20 years, making these projects essential.