Frequently Asked Questions & Responses About Victory Ground Ventures
Why does the size of the phasing keep changing? It was 4,000 and now it is 5,500?
During consultation, community members have asked questions about the project. The following responses were provided answered by the proponent, Victory Ground Ventures (VGV).
There has been some confusion regarding seating and attendance. The original plan included approximately 3,500 seats and standing room for 500. While the number of seats remains unchanged, we have increased the allowance for standing spectators.
Two other domes in Kingston have collapsed under ice and snow. How would this dome be any different? If it is temporary, it seems even more precarious to weather?
During consultation, community members have asked questions about the project. The following responses were provided answered by the proponent, Victory Ground Ventures (VGV).
The design of this dome differs from the historical ones in Kingston. It features an external steel cable harness that relieves 93% of the pressure from the fabric. Unlike the traditional 'hoop' system, this full harness allows the dome to pressurize up to three times more than the industry standard. As a result, it meets and exceeds local snow load requirements, a known challenge in Kingston. Additionally, our dome utilizes triple-welded seams in its two-layer construction, compared to the single-welded system used in other domes. This design creates a larger air gap between the exterior and interior, enhancing insulation and overall structural strength. The stands will also serve as a wind and snow barrier, further reinforcing the structure.
When will the dome be put up and taken down each year?
During consultation, community members have asked questions about the project. The following responses were provided answered by the proponent, Victory Ground Ventures (VGV).
The structure will be taken down at the end of March or the beginning of April, prior to the start of the CPL/League1 season, to ensure that the venue is fully prepared for the upcoming matches. It will then be reinstalled at the end of October to mid-November, once the CPL/League1 season concludes, allowing for necessary off-season maintenance and adjustments.
If the stadium fails, what will the City be left with in terms of site improvements and cleanup?
During consultation, community members have asked questions about the project. The following responses were provided answered by the proponent, Victory Ground Ventures (VGV).
In the event that the project does not succeed, the stands, dome, and other key elements will be sold, as they hold substantial value. It is anticipated that the only remaining asset would be the turf. As part of the lease agreement, the details of this process will be clearly defined and documented to ensure transparency and proper handling of all assets.
How does CPL assess an expansion location? How does League 1?
Both Leagues come with a comprehensive checklist that includes critical elements such as the site, business plan, team structure, and funding. These components are essential for ensuring the project's viability and success, and each one must be thoroughly addressed and finalized with the League before moving forward.
Why does this project need to be on such a tight timeline? This circumvents the engagement process to favour a company that has no history with this type of project.
During consultation, community members have asked questions about the project. The following responses were provided answered by the proponent, Victory Ground Ventures (VGV).
The current timeline was developed during our meetings with the City in mid-December, taking into account the various moving parts and bids involved in the overall project. The dates we are working with were established based on those initial discussions, ensuring alignment with key milestones and allowing for the smooth coordination of all project components. The engagement process is not getting circumvented it is what is happening right now.
Why the Memorial Centre site? Explain why a European model is desired
During consultation, community members have asked questions about the project. The following responses were provided answered by the proponent, Victory Ground Ventures (VGV).
Why the Memorial Centre site? Explain why a European model is desired A matrix was created to rank all the potential sites we considered. This matrix took into account several key factors, including, but not limited to:
• Zoning and land use regulations
• Current land use and availability of necessary services, such as water, fire
• services, roads, transit, wastewater, power, and stormwater management
• Walkability and accessibility for attendees
• Potential land contamination
• The owner’s interest in partnering on this project
• Whether the site is considered a 'destination' site, meaning limited public
• transportation, few nearby restaurants, and minimal surrounding amenities
Part of the footy experience is about more than just the game itself—it’s about the atmosphere. This includes being close to the touchline, walking to the game, and being in a stadium that feels just the right size for the crowd. Halifax has done a fantastic job of this, consistently ranking as the top-attended team despite finishing near the bottom of the league. The European model, which has proven successful over the years, is one we’ve seen work firsthand, and we are confident that it will be just as effective here.