A $10-million renovation of Glace Bay's community rink is scheduled to begin this week.
Bayplex was shut down in 2017. Roof problems and mould were among the concerns.
The complex, built in the mid-1990s, replaced the historic Glace Bay Miners Forum, which stood on the site since the 1930s.
The refurbished arena will be renamed to honour the community's mining heritage following consultation with residents.
The Cape Breton Regional Municipality took over Bayplex from the non-profit group that operated the facility and applied for funding for the project.
Tough decisions had to be made
Mayor Cecil Clarke said some serious decisions had to be made.
"The $10 million going into the Bayplex is well-invested dollars," he said. "It's going to maintain the multi-purpose use of it, but it's also going to give Glace Bay minor hockey a long-term good home."
James Edwards is the president of the Glace Bay Minor Hockey Association. (George Mortimer/CBC)
James Edwards, president of the Glace Bay Minor Hockey Association, said the arena will be a major upgrade.
He said there will be a new entrance, the ice surface will be expanded, the players benches will be moved, new dressing rooms will be built and there will be walking track, among other improvements.
The contract for the project has been awarded to Brilun Constuction of Sydney.
Clarke said the arena is expected to reopen on Canada Day next year.
