Press Releases
City of New Westminster to proceed with renovations to Massey Theatre Complex
Posted On:
August 30, 2022

New Westminster, B.C. – The City of New Westminster is pleased to announce that it will be proceeding with the planned renovation of the Massey Theatre Complex. The more than 83,000 square foot space that includes the existing Massey Theatre, adjacent classrooms, band rooms, and small gymnasium will be renovated through shared investment with the City’s operating partner, the Massey Theatre Society. Work will include upgrades to the existing building to meet modern life safety and accessibility requirements, as well as repurposing ancillary spaces to support a variety of arts, cultural, and community uses.

“After taking over ownership of the Massey Theatre Complex last year, the City of New Westminster is excited to move ahead with renovations,” said Mayor Jonathan Coté. “The Massey Theatre renovations are an important component of advancing the City’s priorities and long-standing commitment to support the performing arts.”

The decision to move forward with the renovation is consistent with the plans that were developed in 2015 when the Ministry of Education and New Westminster School District began discussions with the City to transfer ownership of the Massey Theatre. The renovation scope of work will include the removal of the North Wing portion of the Massey Theatre Complex, which includes the former New Westminster Secondary School cafeteria, large gymnasium, and dance studio. The lands currently occupied by the north wing will be retained under the ownership of the City of New Westminster and will be available to support future civic priorities.

“In order to continue to serve our community, the Massey Theatre requires significant upgrades to bring the facility up to modern standards and meet current building code requirements,” said Lisa Leblanc, Director of Engineering for the City of New Westminster. “In partnership with the Massey Theatre Society, the upcoming renovations will ensure the Massey Theatre Complex supports a safe and inclusive gathering place and allows the facility to be used to its fullest potential artistically, culturally, and socially.”

The project work plan includes completing building investigations and refining the project phasing by the end of 2022. Design development and preparation of tender documents will take place in 2023 with the project awarded for construction in early 2024. All construction is targeted for completion by early 2026. The City of New Westminster’s total planned expenditure for the Massey Theatre Renovation is $14.1M to be funded from facility reserves.

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Media Contact:

Ashleigh Young
Communications Officer
City of New Westminster
604-527-4559 or