Town of Banff

The Story of The Fenlands

A new name for Banff's newest facility

While the arched wood beams for the new curling rink ceiling were being lowered into place in the spring of 2010, long time staff at Banff ’s old ice rinks suggested that a new name was needed for what would become the community’s stunning new gathering place. The “rec centre” just wouldn’t do it justice.

Hundreds of ideas were considered. The selection team kept returning to one of the first names suggested: The Fenlands. The name conjures images of the lush, natural landscape of the Fenland Trail, just across Norquay Road. The name tells a story of the biodiversity of Banff and the tradition of the place.

The new look captures the imagery of the fen. The blue expanse crossed by skate tracks represents ice, winter sport and water. Both modern and classic, the design echoes the architecture of the building. The arc of the curling rink separates mountain from water. The yellow rumped warbler, common to the area, perched in the tall grass, represents the diverse flora and fauna that live in the fenland. Visit The Fenlands today and find out more.

The Fenlands

Phase 1 of the centre, almost completely rebuilt from the previous aging facility on the same site, offers an overhauled 185  x 85 ft ice slab, a brand new curling rink with four sheets and associated services, along with two meeting rooms, lounges and a concourse, set in a spectacular glass and wood structure designed to meet LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) silver standard. Phase 2, which opened March 6, 2011 is an NHL-sized ice sheet. Construction began May 2009, and the facility opened on time and on budget in late 2010.   

Future phases will come on board as funding permits. 

Visit Progress in Pictures or drop by The Fenlands for a look at Banff's newest facility.