Membertou arena, shopping complex construction moves ahead

The Cape Breton First Nationscommunity of Membertou is expanding its business opportunities with two major projects,one to open this summer and the otherin 2018.

Construction started in the summer of 2015 on a $19-millionsports complex.It will house two NHL-sized rinks, a wellness centre and a walking track.

"Right now, the roof is being completed and the fitness centre is under construction and the interior is well under way," said Membertousenior adviserDan Christmas.

"We're hoping to open in late June early July, and begin commissioning the ice sometime in the month of July."

Christmas saidpreliminary construction will start this summer ona major retail complex,Churchill Crossing,located directly across Highway 125 fromMembertou.It will include a mix of big box stores, smaller retailers and other facilities. Road access to the location is already complete.

Christmas saidMembertouisalready receiving proposals from companies that want to locate there.

Both projects are aimed at increasing the smallcommunity's business sector, he said, bringing people toMembertoufor recreation and shopping. It will also increaseemployment opportunities.