As the current provincial order, which has seen the province return to a modified stage 2 set of restrictions, is set to expire, the City of Welland’s recreation and programming services are preparing to reopen.

On Jan. 31, recreation facilities will reopen with a 50 per cent occupancy level as per Provincial directives. Any indoor social gathering rental in city of Welland facilities will have a further indoor gathering limit of 10 people.

All indoor environments require proof of vaccination. As per the provincial mandate, Welland facilities only accept QR code proof (printed copy or digital).

“City staff have been preparing to reopen since the day we had to shut down,” said Rob Axiak, director of community services. “We are ready to welcome residents back to our facilities and provide the same great services and programs we were before the shutdown.”

The Welland Community Wellness Complex (WCWC) welcomes back drop-in programs and swimming lessons the week of Jan. 31 and paid programs and classes the week of Feb. 13:

• Drop-in programs – register online or call the WCWC
• Swimming lessons – ensure you know the modified dates and times for classes.
• Paid programs and classes – register online or call the WCWC

Ice at the Main and Jack Ballantyne Memorial Arenas reopen on Jan. 31 with an on-ice capacity of 80 people. Spectators are limited to 500 in the main arena and 112 in the youth arena. Face coverings and physical distancing requirements remain in effect. Public skating returns beginning Feb. 5.

The Welland International Flatwater Centre also reopens on Jan. 31

The province has outlined future dates of Feb. 21 and Mar. 14 as potential markers to lift restrictions further. As restrictions lift, the City will amend its offerings.