West Hamilton sports complex reopens after destructive September fire

A sports complex in west Hamilton has reopened nine months after a severe fire — and it has a new look.

An accidental fire broke out during major renovations at the Wentworth Sports Complex on Sept. 30, 2024 and spread to a Zamboni, destroying a garage and a tool room. The blaze was so intense that the Zamboni melted to the workshop floor.

READ MORE: Zamboni fire at Hamilton sports complex causes over $1M damage

Three-quarters of a year later court and ball sports are on at the complex — including pickleball, badminton, basketball, volleyball and a baseball area with batting cages. However, there are no ice rinks.

HamOnt Sports Limited, which also owns Soccer World, said in a statement that turning the rinks into fields was a “heart-wrenching decision…to make.”

The facility — complete with spectator seating — is currently running some summer day camps and will fully reopen in the fall.

The complex’s restaurant and bar will reopen after Labour Day.

READ MORE: Wentworth Sports Complex closed until next season due to fire damage