A remarkable transformation is breathing new life into Chatham's industrial landscape as the former Navistar International truck plant evolves into a world-class indoor sports destination. This ambitious redevelopment project promises to reshape the region's recreational offerings while honoring the property's manufacturing legacy.
From Assembly Lines to Athletic Excellence
The sprawling 760,000-square-foot facility, which once produced heavy-duty trucks, is being reimagined as a premier sports hub that will serve athletes across Southwestern Ontario. The scale of this conversion is staggering – the complex will house multiple professional-grade courts and fields under one massive roof.
State-of-the-Art Sports Infrastructure
When complete, the complex will feature:
- Eight full-sized basketball courts that can convert to 16 volleyball courts
- Twelve badminton courts for both recreational and competitive play
- Multiple pickleball courts catering to Canada's fastest-growing sport
- A full-sized artificial turf field for soccer, football, and lacrosse
- Comprehensive support facilities including change rooms and concession areas
Economic Game-Changer for Chatham-Kent
This project represents more than just a sports facility – it's an economic catalyst for the entire region. The complex is expected to become a major draw for sports tourism, attracting tournaments and competitions that will fill local hotels, restaurants, and shops.
Local officials are enthusiastic about the potential for job creation and increased visitor spending, seeing this as a perfect example of adaptive reuse that honors Chatham's industrial past while embracing its future as a recreational destination.
Phased Opening Strategy
The development team has planned a strategic phased opening, with the first basketball and volleyball courts expected to be operational by early 2025. This approach allows for continuous operation while construction continues on other sections of the massive facility.
The project's scale and vision position it to become one of Ontario's largest indoor sports complexes, serving not just local residents but attracting regional and provincial competitions that previously bypassed the area.
