Photo: City of Lloydminster

A brand-new event centre just celebrating its grand opening in Lloydminster.

The $101.3 million Cenovus Energy Hub, which was under construction for the last two years, includes a 2,500-seat event arena that expands to 4,500 for concerts, a 500-seat community arena, and an outdoor ice surface that converts to a basketball court in the summer.

The project was funded through grants from the federal and provincial governments, City funds, and fundraising efforts, as well as a $5 million commitment from Cenovus Energy, hence the name.

The new facility aims to attract larger concerts, sporting events and conferences to the region, which the City hopes to eventually transform into an entertainment district. This will include retail units, a hotel, slo-pitch diamonds, a powered campground, a pavilion and walking trails.

The modern facility replaces the 58-year-old Centennial Civic Centre and is designed with full accessibility features throughout.