Project Background
The Massey Theatre Complex renovation project will see significant upgrades made to the existing facility to improve energy efficiency, accessibility, and the exterior envelope. The City of New Westminster’s contribution of $34.1 million reflects the City’s ongoing commitment to the cultural sector through strategic investment and recognizes the importance of this civic cultural asset to the local and regional arts community. Additionally, this work aligns with the strategic priorities outlined in the 2019-2024 Arts Strategy and 2019 Theatre Strategy.
Throughout the project, the City will work alongside its operating partner, the Massey Theatre Society (MTS), to fulfill the shared vision of bringing together the opportunities, capabilities and resources of both organizations to improve the facility and its specialized functions for the enjoyment of all citizens of New Westminster.
The renovation project aims to extend the life of the Complex and provide a modernized space with improved energy efficiency and accessibility features. The Massey Theatre Complex will remain open and vibrant with plenty of performances and community activities as the upgrades progress. Updates on the phases of renovation will be provided as we move through the project.
Phase 1 - Fall 2024
The first phase of facility upgrades for the Massey Theatre and Complex is complete and involved relocating the incoming water service, water entry room, fire sprinkler distribution piping and fire department connection.
Phase 2 - Winter 2025
Phase 2 is now complete and included the deconstruction of the large gymnasium wing.
Phase 3 - Summer 2025
Phase three of facility upgrades is scheduled to take place from July 2025 to Fall 2027 and will include:
- New back-of-house utility addition including electrical distribution upgrade
- Accessibility upgrades including new elevators, interior ramps and public washroom replacement
- Building envelope upgrades including new roofs, exterior walls, windows and doors
- HVAC system upgrade to all-electric air source heat pump system
- Perimeter drainage and foundation work
- Public realm upgrades including new landscaping, additional parking stalls, and electric vehicle charging stations
Washroom Upgrade
The new washrooms feature an all-gender and accessible design that prioritizes privacy, dignity, and ease of use, supporting a wide range of abilities, family structures, and caregiving needs. Specific improvements include:
All-gender washrooms
- Enhanced privacy partitions
- High-contrast corners to support people with visual impairments
- Open layout to improve circulation and reduce lineups
Accessible washrooms
- Infant change tables
- Spacious layouts with grab bars
- Automatic door openers and button-activated locks
Accessible washroom with change space
- Extra-large layout to support guests with assistants
- Powered adult change table
- Automatic door opener and button-activated locks
Tree Replacement
To accommodate perimeter drainage and foundation work, several trees located along the front entrance of Massey Theatre must be removed. All efforts were made to find a solution to retain the trees. Replacement will be consistent with the City's Tree Protection Bylaw; two trees will be planted for every tree that is removed. The design of site improvements, replacement tree species, and location is still in progress, although City arborists will be involved in the selection of tree species to ensure the new trees are climate-adapted and will be able to thrive in the new landscape.
The new trees will be planted as part of the full landscaping plan in spring 2026, following the completion of exterior work.
FAQs
Why is the Massey Theatre undergoing renovations?
The City of New Westminster is investing $34.1M into Massey Theatre to extend the lifespan of this important civic asset which serves the local and regional arts community. This work reflects the City’s ongoing commitment to the arts and cultural sector and providing inclusive community gathering spaces.
The renovation work includes significant upgrades to improve energy efficiency, accessibility enhancements, and other structural and safety upgrades.
Will the facility remain open during the renovation?
The theatre at the heart of the facility will remain open throughout the majority of the renovation project. However, due to some aspects of the work that involves disruptions to the studio spaces, interior and exterior of the facility, and taking into account safety precautions, two extended closures are planned. A three-month closure took place in 2025, and a similar closure is expected to begin in July 2026.
Why was the Gathering Place garden removed?
In order to upgrade the facility’s perimeter drainage and foundation, some plantings along the south wall needed to be removed from the garden. The timber structure, hardscape, and other plantings have not been impacted. The outdoor spaces will be reinstated later this year. Trees impacted in this area will be replaced, along with the addition of new trees, at another location on the site in accordance with the City’s Tree Bylaw requirements.
Why was this garden opened in 2024 only for it to be removed in 2025?
In 2021, Massey Theatre Society received external grant funding to build the Gathering Place garden with a requirement that the project be completed within a specific timeframe. The Gathering Place work was coordinated with the City to minimize reinstatement work and costs in this area. However, to accommodate the full scope of exterior drainage work required, some portions of the Gathering Place had to be removed.
What work is being completed as part of the renovation project?
The facility renovation will include upgrades to various utility services; accessibility improvements, including a new elevator, interior ramps, and a public washroom replacement; a new HVAC system; and exterior upgrades such as new roofing, exterior finishes and cladding, windows, paint, new landscaping, additional parking stalls, and electric vehicle charging stations.
Contact
For more information on the project, please contact Karen Campbell, Manager, Civic Buildings Capital Projects at
Background Documents
Council Report - December 2, 2024