2026
Summer
- Hazardous materials abatement has begun.
- Site preparation has been completed.
Spring
- Site preparation began.
Early
- Tree and shrub removals were completed.
The project will deconstruct the Coliseum building along with specific site infrastructure and redevelop the interim site.
The Coliseum Deconstruction and Site Redevelopment is separate from the Edmonton Spectrum Demolition Project, which began on-site work in fall 2025.
Project Update - Summer 2026
Site preparation has been completed. Hazardous materials abatement, which involves the identification and removal of hazardous substances, is underway. The removal process can take some time—as there be hazardous materials—which may not be visible or easily accessible, throughout this large unconventional structure, and selective demolition may be required to access them.
The abatement work is anticipated to have minimal impact on nearby residents or businesses. Most of the abatement work will not be visible to the public, as it will be completed inside the building.
Once hazardous materials abatement is complete, deconstruction work is anticipated to begin. More information about this project phase will be shared before the work begins.
About the Project
For 43 years, the Coliseum (formerly known as the Northlands Coliseum, Rexall Place, Skyreach Centre and the Edmonton Coliseum) served as an indoor arena that hosted events and was home to several professional sports teams—including the Edmonton Oilers.
After its closure, the City of Edmonton investigated options for the site, which revealed the best option was to deconstruct the vacant facility and redevelop the site.
The Coliseum Deconstruction and Site Redevelopment involves the following:
- Tree and shrub removals (where necessary)
- Site preparation
- Hazardous materials abatement
- Site remediation
- Deconstruction of the Coliseum building and specific site infrastructure
- Decommissioning of relevant site utilities
- Interim site redevelopment
The deconstruction plan is informed by a detailed and ongoing planning and design process, which will continue to evolve over the course of the project.
Investigative studies have examined the risks, complexities, costs, schedule and potential deconstruction methods for this large and unconventional structure. Hazardous materials abatement and early deconstruction work will continue to inform the project approach.
This project will ensure the Coliseum site retains flexibility for future long-term development, which aligns with the Edmonton Exhibition Lands Planning Framework (10.03 MB) and Implementation Strategy.
The planning, design and construction associated with any future long-term development are not a part of the Coliseum Deconstruction and Site Redevelopment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the Coliseum being deconstructed?
The Coliseum building is being deconstructed to prepare the site for future long-term development that aligns with the Edmonton Exhibition Lands Planning Framework and Implementation Strategy.
What considerations have been explored related to the deconstruction?
Investigative studies have been conducted to explore options for the deconstruction and to help determine the best plan. There are hazardous materials in the building that need to be safely removed before deconstruction can begin.
There is also a need to minimize any debris or airborne particles, due to nearby businesses, homes and transportation infrastructure.
Why wasn’t the Coliseum repurposed?
Following the closure of the Coliseum, numerous facility repurposing proposals were considered. These proposals were not accepted due to cost, feasibility or the terms of the Arena Master Agreement, which was included in the agreement framework for the Downtown Arena and Entertainment District Project.
