A new recreation centre will be built in Prince Albert after it was announced Friday that the federal and provincial governments are helping fund the majority of a $60 million dollar facility that will include a new indoor aquatic centre and two hockey rinks.

Deputy Mayor, Don Cody says the approved project comes after the city had their first proposal denied.

The original application included an arena that would have housed the WHL’s Prince Albert Raiders, although the application was denied as the Raiders are considered a semi-pro sports franchise. Cody adds the city is still considering a new arena for the Raiders.

The new rec centre will include a 47 thousand square foot indoor aquatic centre along with two 68 thousand square foot hockey rinks. Cody says the new facility will replace two ageing facilities in the Dave Stuart Rink and the Kinsmen Arena.

The new facility is expected to include seating capacity for 800 spectators in each arena, dressing rooms, storage, concessions, washrooms and a foyer.

The province will provide nearly $20 million dollars, the federal government will fund $24 million and the City of Prince Albert will invest $16 million dollars.

In Southend, which is 220 kilometres northeast of La Ronge, provincial and federal funding will allow for the construction of the Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation Community Ice Rink that allows for winter ice sports and throughout the summer, a multi purpose space for cultural and recreational activities.

Ottawa is supplying $4.5 million for the Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation Community Ice Rink, the province will provide $1.5 million and the PBCN will invest more than a million dollars.