Laval, Wednesday, April 15, 2026 – On Tuesday evening, Parti Laval city councillors Louise Lortie (Marc-Aurèle-Fortin) and Martin Vaillancourt (Fabre-Sud) called for a public consultation on the future of the Richard-Trottier arena. Several citizens spoke at the April 14, 2026 city council meeting to express their concerns. Additionally, a letter supporting the maintenance of the arena from Jocelyn Thibault, a former National Hockey League (NHL) player and former director general of Hockey Québec, was also submitted during the council session. The opposition denounces the lack of alternatives: "We cannot propose to demolish the Richard-Trottier arena and then propose consultations. Citizens must be able to express their views on all options," stated Martin Vaillancourt.
Consult in advance. A significant mobilization
During the meeting, many people and sports figures expressed their concerns about the demolition of the Richard-Trottier arena. In a context where Laval is already significantly behind in this regard, Parti Laval elected officials believe that this mobilization clearly demonstrates the need to involve the public in the decision-making process. "What we are seeing is a real mobilization of citizens, sports organizations, and families to save the arena. The Boyer administration must take note of this," stated Mr. Vaillancourt.
For the opposition, the current approach raises significant issues. After years without a structuring decision, the option of demolition is being considered without consultation on possible scenarios. "We are putting the cart before the horse. We're talking about demolishing first, then thinking about the future of the site. That's the exact opposite of what we should be doing as a government close to the people," added Ms. Lortie.
Faced with this observation, the Fabreville-Sud city councilor submitted a proposal requesting that no demolition be authorized without genuine public consultation on all options, including the possibility of preserving the building. This will be discussed at the next municipal council meeting. Until then, the opposition invites citizens to sign the online petition at voselus.info/pétitionarénatrottier. "Demolition is irreversible. We consult first, then we decide," concluded Martin Vaillancourt.
SOURCE :
Opposition Office | Laval Party
INFORMATION : Tommy Vallée | Communications Manager
438 875 8663 │t.vallee@laval.ca