The town of Wynyard has taken another step to breaking ground on a new arena.

Town Council on December 28 passed a motion to apply to the provincial Local Government Committee for permission to borrow $7 million for the project.

The five-minute meeting was a formality, given Wynyard’s sound financial status, Mayor Albert Boylak said.

The project is moving ahead, with ground set to be broken in February to prepare for the arrival of the prefabricated metal building in April. Construction is expected to take 16 to 18 months.

“Everybody in the community is very excited. It’s been a long-awaited process and to actually see it happen is a pretty exciting day,” Boylak said.

The old arena, built in the 1950s, is at the end of its lifespan, Boylak said. It’s set to be in operation for one more year.

“A new arena for the community is a major part for every person in the community. Whether you are involved in sporting events, have children or grandchildren that are involved in sporting events, that makes up the community.”

The arena also attracts professionals to Wynyard, which in turn supports the housing market, he said.

The project has been awarded to Quorex Construction, who will hire local subcontractors, he said.