News Release

MONCTON (GNB) – The provincial government is investing $299,705 in a revitalization project for the Aberdeen Cultural Centre in Moncton.

“This centre is one of the most important cultural facilities in New Brunswick,” said Finance Minister Cathy Rogers. “This investment will support the many members of southeastern New Brunswick’s vibrant artistic community and the contribution they make to our region and our economy.”

Rogers made the announcement on behalf of Post-Secondary Education, Training and Labour Minister Donald Arseneault, who is also minister responsible for the Regional Development Corporation.

The funding will be used towards the final renovation phase at the Aberdeen Cultural Centre. The project includes the restoration of the exterior walls and the three main entrances as well as the development of a cultural terrace and outdoor space to house significant productions.

“This contribution from the provincial government for the final phase of the renovation project at the Aberdeen Cultural Centre is a tremendous vote of confidence in the work that we do for the 40,000 people who use the centre every year,” said René Légère, executive director. “Thanks to this contribution, the centre will be able to continue its work in the development of artistic creation in New Brunswick.”

The centre, at 140 Botsford St., is home to about 20 organizations active in arts, culture and education. The building was constructed in 1897, destroyed by fire in 1914 and reconstructed in 1916. It was originally Moncton’s first secondary school, known as Aberdeen High School. In 1986, after the school was decommissioned, a group of artists installed studios and offices, creating a co-operative known as the Aberdeen Cultural Centre.