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Oulton-Stanish Centre construction progressing, thanks in part to RKO Steel's generosity

An aerial view of the new Oulton-Stanish Centre under construction.

Posted: September 23, 2024

By: Emm Campbell

The highly anticipated Oulton-Stanish Centre is coming to life, thanks in part to the participation of RKO Steel. 

“I have always believed very strongly in Dal having a rink and an opportunity developed for our company to help make that happen,” says Ian Oulton (BA'66), president of RKO Steel.

Oulton standing with arms crossed, smiling on construction site. RKO Steel president Ian Oulton (BA'66).

“I would like to see it become a great gathering spot for varsity sports. I would like to see a large revival of inter-faculty sports. And I hope the rink will be used by Dal and community for public skating.”

Overhead view of a large building roof under construction. Aerial shot of the centre, August 2024.

Founded in 1983, RKO Steel produces more than 5,000 tons of high-grade steel products each year for customers across Canada and around the world. It is working with EllisDon to bring the new centre to life. 

Oulton stands with two others in front of construction equipment. Ian Oulton touring the construction site.

“The steel forms the extent, shape, and support for the building,” Oulton says. “It’s a quality project that is being made possible with the support of the community.”

Construction of the Oulton-Stanish Centre roof. An aerial shot of work on the centre’s roof, taken August 2024.

The 60,000-square-foot centre is schedule to open in fall 2025. It will be the new home of ĢAV varsity, club and intramural ice sports. It will also house the new and improved Dal Physiotherapy Clinic and offer space for small and large-scale community events.

A group of workers, some with arms crossed, pose on a construction site. Oulton with some of the professionals who are helping to build the centre.

“Everything is coming together beautifully,” says Oulton. “We have a great team working on this and I believe the centre will make a very positive contribution to ĢAV and the surrounding community when it is finished.”