The Town of Antigonish and Municipality of the County of Antigonish are working together to better understand how people use local recreation spaces and programs, and what improvements or new opportunities are needed.
What is a Recreation Needs Assessment?
A recreation needs assessment is a process that uses surveys, public input, and population data to learn what parks, facilities, and programs a community currently has, what may be missing, and what should be improved. It helps leaders plan wisely and make informed decisions about future recreation services.
The goal is to make sure recreation opportunities meet the changing and diverse needs of the whole community, including people who need accessible spaces and programs.
The objectives for this project are:
- Identify gaps in parks, facilities, and recreation programs
- Understand how current spaces and programs are being used
- Gather community input through surveys and engagement
- Review population and demographic trends
- Identify ways to improve accessibility and inclusion in recreation services
This will help:
- Provide clear, evidence-based recommendations
- Help guide future planning and spending decisions
- Support long-term recreation development for the community
Recreation is anything you choose to do in your free time that helps you relax, have fun, stay active, or connect with others. It can include sports, fitness, and walking, but it also includes quieter activities like reading, spending time in nature, or doing something creative. Recreation is not just sports - it also includes arts, culture, theatre, music, and other hobbies you enjoy.
Recreation spaces are indoor or outdoor places where people take part in activities. These can be municipal, privately owned, or community-run spaces such as arenas, community halls, gymnasiums, and other gathering places.
Outdoor spaces are outdoor areas used for recreation or enjoying nature. This includes parks, beaches, trails, school grounds, sports fields, mini-pitches, skateparks, active transportation paths, and similar spaces.
Have your say!
There will be several ways for you to participate and share your thoughts about all things recreation in Antigonish Town and County.
You can get more information, access the public surveys and register for and Engagement Session here: Antigonish Recreation Needs Assessment
Recreation Needs Assessment - Public Survey
This survey asks how and where you and your Household currently take part in recreation in our community, and what you would like to see in the future. The survey takes about 10 minutes to complete, and all responses are confidential. You can also include your email to be entered to win one of five $100 Sobeys gift cards.
To fill out the survey, visit: Recreation Needs Assessment Public Survey
Recreation Needs Assessment - Community Organizations
This survey is for non-profit and service organizations involved in recreation, arts, culture, sports, events, programs, or activities — including groups that own, lease, or operate recreation spaces.
Organizations will receive an email invitation to complete the survey on behalf of their group.
Community Engagement Sessions
There are eight engagement sessions taking place between March 24 and April 1, 2026 across Antigonish Town and County, including additional pop-ups at the Antigonish Farmers Market (TBA).
These sessions are a chance for residents to share ideas and feedback about recreation facilities and needs in Antigonish. Registration is recommended but not required. Visit the Community Engagement Sessions page to register.
Tuesday, March 24
6 to 8 p.m.
St. Andrew Junior School
Wednesday, March 25
6 to 8 p.m.
Arisaig Community Centre
Thursday, March 26
2 to 4 p.m.
St. Joseph's Community Centre
Thursday, March 26
6 to 8 p.m.
Virutal Session
Tuesday, March 31
2 to 4 p.m.
Virtual Session
Tuesday, March 31
6 to 8 p.m.
Heatherton Community Centre
Wednesday, April 1
2 to 4 p.m.
Antigonish Legion
Wednesday, April 1
6 to 8 p.m.
Mini Trail Community Centre
