A heritage performance space in New Westminster is undergoing a transformative, multi-phase renovation aimed at extending its service life by 25 years—while tackling critical upgrades in seismic resilience, accessibility, and infrastructure.
A Landmark Saved, a Vision Renewed
Located at 735 Eighth Avenue, the Massey Theatre has long been a cultural anchor in New Westminster’s arts community. Originally slated for demolition as part of the New Westminster Secondary School replacement, the nearly 75-year-old structure was given new life when the City of New Westminster took ownership in November 2021. What followed was a significant commitment—both in planning and funding—to upgrade the aging theatre while preserving its role as a vibrant community hub.
In partnership with the Massey Theatre Society (MTS), the City is now implementing a strategic renovation through a Minimum Viable Option (MVO) known as Tier 1 – Scenario 3, which targets essential structural, seismic, and accessibility improvements without interrupting the theatre’s operations for extended periods.
A Phased Construction Plan to Keep the Curtains Up
The renovation plan is intentionally staged across multiple years to minimize disruptions to ongoing programming. As of Winter 2025, Phase 2—which included the deconstruction of the large North Wing gymnasium—is now complete. Phase 3, scheduled for Summer 2025 through Fall 2027, will focus on critical upgrades including:
Electrical system modernization
All-electric HVAC systems
Accessibility additions like elevators, ramps, and universal washrooms
Roofing and exterior wall replacements
Public realm enhancements including landscaping and EV charging stations
Future phases will further refine the building envelope and lay groundwork for deeper structural and sustainability improvements.
*Photo by City of New Westminster
Seismic and Structural Concerns Drive Urgency
A 2015 structural assessment by Bush, Bohlman & Partners revealed the Massey Theatre's seismic performance was well below current BC Building Code standards—less than 20% of required capacity in key areas. While there were no signs of immediate structural distress, concerns over unreinforced masonry walls, outdated diaphragm systems, and snow load deficiencies underscored the need for significant upgrades.
The MVO includes localized structural enhancements, such as:
Reinforcing roof diaphragms with new joists and plywood sheathing
Rebuilding critical exterior walls to modern seismic standards
However, a full seismic retrofit—costing substantially more—is deferred for future phases. Notably, foundational reinforcements and upgrades to the fly tower remain excluded, pending additional funding.
Accessibility Takes Center Stage
The facility’s original layout presented serious barriers for performers and patrons with mobility challenges. In response, the MVO includes:
A 4-stop public elevator and 2-stop backstage elevator
A new internal ramp to access studio spaces
Universal, gender-neutral washrooms on the main level
While these upgrades represent significant progress, full compliance—such as wheelchair viewing platforms and universal washrooms on all floors—is not part of the current scope. These gaps are slated for future consideration, with a comprehensive Rick Hansen Foundation assessment planned to guide next steps.
Budget Realities and Strategic Funding
When initially scoped in 2015, the renovation was estimated to cost $9.5M. By 2022, revised projections placed the price tag at $20.1M, creating a $6M shortfall from the City’s approved budget. This funding gap was resolved in June 2023 when New Westminster allocated a portion of its $15.85M Provincial Growing Communities Fund grant to the project.
The latest update places the City’s full financial commitment at $34.1M, reflecting both rising construction costs and the evolving scope. An annual operating budget of $400,000 has been established for maintenance, but ongoing operational and capital funding will likely require third-party partnerships and long-term planning.
Environmental Performance: A Work in Progress
Despite some thermal and energy-efficient upgrades—like added insulation and low-VOC materials—the Massey Theatre renovation does not yet meet modern green building benchmarks like LEED Gold. In fact, the facility is currently a major outlier in the City’s goal to cut GHG emissions by 50% by 2030. More robust environmental retrofits are anticipated in future phases, with Phase 2 expected to include modeling and feasibility studies for deeper sustainability efforts.
A Cultural Keystone for the Next Generation
The Massey Theatre’s rebirth isn’t just about bricks and mortar—it’s about reaffirming New Westminster’s commitment to the arts, culture, and community inclusion. The City’s proactive stance ensures that the beloved 1,260-seat venue will remain a beacon of creativity for decades to come, even as it continues evolving to meet modern expectations.
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