In the lead up to the 2018 FEI World Equestrian Games™ in Bromont, Quebec, the decision to build a permanent indoor arena at the Bromont Olympic Equestrian Park has been hotly debated. At the January 7th meeting of the town council, however, the project received unanimous support.

The proposed concept for the structure will be subject to strict conditions set out by the Agricultural Society of the County of Shefford (SACS), to ensure respect for the environment and to foster the development of the unique landscape of the site.

Roger Deslauriers, general manager of the Bromont Olympic Equestrian Park, said discussion about building an indoor arena on this site have been ongoing for 15 years. “The indoor arena is essential to the establishment of the first equestrian centre of excellence in Canada, for training and competition.”

In addition, the indoor arena will provide a venue for the reining and vaulting portions of the 2018 FEI World Equestrian Games™, which means all eight disciplines can be accommodated on the same site.

Those who opposed the project wanted to see a business plan that would generate enough revenue to run the site and maintain the facilities in the future. It was also noted that a permanent structure was not needed to host the WEG, as according a report issued by the FEI, a temporary structure would suffice.

Organizers content that the permanent facility will host national and international equestrian competitions year round. “The City of Bromont is known internationally for its site, and equestrian events. The construction of the indoor arena is an essential addition to our infrastructure for the future,” added Deslauriers.

Read more content tagged Bromont Equestrian Centre on Horse Canada, including the History of Bromont Equestrian Centre.