Belcourt Centre replacement taking shape fast

A new multi-million dollar Catholic retreat centre is taking shape fast on P.E.I.'s North Shore.

Construction work on the exterior of the $2.9 million Our Lady of Hope retreat Centre is almost complete.

Crews will be working indoors through the winter.

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"We're in no rush," said Father Eric Dunn, chair of the advisory committee that is overseeing work for the Diocese of Charlottetown."We're not setting a goal for when it has to be ready."

The 7.5-hectareproperty was donated by a parishioner.

The building will accommodate up to 60 people, with private bathrooms, a large kitchen and dining areas.

A large balcony off the dining room offers inspirational views of New London Bay.

"The centre will be a place of prayer, reflection and meditation," said Dunn.

Belcourt Centre remains open for now

Green spaces and wooded trails around the property will be open to the public when construction is complete.

The centre is located on Reid Road, near Stanley Bridge, in the community of Bayview.

The new centre will replace the Belcourt Centre in Rustico.

It will continue to be used until the new centre is complete.

Some residents of Rusticowant to preserve the Belcourt Centre for its heritage value.

Officials at the diocese say they continue to talk a couple of groups who have ideas for the building.

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