Cambridge, Ont. — The long-anticipated grand opening of the Preston Memorial Auditorium will not go ahead as planned this weekend after the City of Cambridge announced construction delays have forced the event’s postponement.
Originally scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 27, the official unveiling of the new community facility has been delayed until occupancy permits are secured and the site is deemed ready for public use. The city said it is committed to ensuring the project is fully complete before welcoming residents.
“While we are eager to celebrate this outstanding new space with the community, our first priority is to deliver a completed facility that will serve residents for many years to come,” said Mayor Jan Liggett.
City Cites Construction Challenges
City officials described the decision as precautionary, noting that large-scale construction projects often face unexpected hurdles. The Preston Memorial Auditorium, once open, is intended to be a cornerstone recreational venue for local sports teams and community programming.
“Construction projects of this scale can often experience unforeseen challenges and the City is committed to ensuring the site is fully complete, fully operational, and ready for public use before holding the official opening event,” the city said in a release.
The municipality has been working closely with user groups that were preparing to begin activities at the facility in October. According to the city, staff will be in contact with these organizations to coordinate alternative arrangements until the auditorium can officially open.
Community Programming Impact
The delay affects groups scheduled to use the facility this fall. While the city has not provided specific details about which organizations are impacted, it said “every effort will be made to ensure alternative solutions are in place until the building is fully operational.”
The setback is disappointing for residents who had anticipated the launch of the new arena, but the city emphasized that the wait will ensure the space meets the standards required for long-term community use.
Alternative Weekend Plans
Although the Preston Memorial Auditorium will not open this weekend, Cambridge residents will still have reason to gather. On Saturday, Sept. 27, the Cambridge Rivulettes will host their home opener at Galt Arena Gardens at 3 p.m., followed by the Cambridge Redhawks game at 7 p.m.
Anyone who had planned to attend the auditorium’s grand opening is encouraged to join the festivities at Galt Arena instead. As part of the community celebration, the city is offering free popcorn to attendees while supplies last.
The Rivulettes, a women’s hockey team with a strong local following, and the Redhawks, a junior hockey club, represent the community’s ongoing connection to the sport. Their games are expected to provide a lively backdrop to what was meant to be an opening-day celebration. Admission applies for the Redhawks game, while entry to the Rivulettes match remains a highlight of the weekend’s programming.
Awaiting New Opening Date
A revised date for the Preston Memorial Auditorium grand opening has not yet been confirmed. Officials said the decision will hinge on final approvals, including occupancy permits, to ensure public safety and readiness.
“A new date for the official grand opening event will be determined once occupancy permits are in place,” the city noted.
Residents are encouraged to monitor the city’s website and social media channels for updates on the project timeline.
Looking Ahead
The Preston Memorial Auditorium is expected to play a significant role in Cambridge’s recreation landscape, providing expanded capacity for local hockey, figure skating, and other community activities. Once operational, the facility is set to relieve pressure on existing venues while offering modern amenities for athletes and spectators alike.
For now, anticipation will continue to build as residents wait for the opportunity to step inside the long-promised arena.
More information and updates are available at cambridge.ca/PrestonAud.
