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The $52 million renovation and conversion of the former Robert Bateman High School into Burlington’s newest community centre is on course for a 2025 opening.

With a sustainability and community-building focus, the city is repurposing the high school, that was operational for 50 years, into a multi-purpose community-focused asset that will align with the city’s objective of being net-zero carbon by 2040. The former secondary school project will include interior renovations, exterior building changes and minor site plan modifications as part of phase one.

In the purchase agreement, the city bought the Bateman property for $29.6 million, while the Halton District School Board purchased a city-owned property near Burlington Central High School, which includes the high school football field and running track, for $21.7 million.

While the facility is under major construction, all of the major building systems are being replaced along with interior finishes and exterior landscaping.

Exterior site works, underground sanitary, storm and water have been worked on over the summer. Most recently, the rear parking lot has been rough graded and is being prepared for concrete curbs, sidewalks and base asphalt before the winter.

Interior works including new walls, ceilings, plumbing, HVAC, power and lighting have been renovated in all areas. All major mechanical and electrical equipment is onsite and the exterior façade including siding, glazing and composite panelling are currently being installed.

“Bateman Community Centre will be an amazing place for residents and visitors. It will have many state-of-the-art features, community space, and much more. We’re excited for the partnerships with current stakeholders and all the benefits they will bring to the community and surrounding area,” said Ken Pirhonen, City of Burlington manager of facility assets.

“We are on target for phase one to be open in September 2025 which includes main street and public access to Burlington Public Library, Brock University and other public areas. Community rooms will be complete in phase two.”

Designed by Toronto-based architects Tillmann Ruth Robinson, the contract was awarded last April to Norlon Builders London Limited, with the project aimed to engage area residents by collocating several complementary community assets under one roof.

When the renovation is complete, community partners such as Brock University, the Burlington Public Library, the Halton District School Board, Tech Place and the City of Burlington will move into the building and begin offering their services.