Multiple sites proposed for multiplex in Cambridge

There's a new option on the table for the Cambridge sports multiplex that would see amenities split between two locations: the gym and swimming pool at one site and the ice rink at a second site.

The multiple site option was discussed at a meeting Monday night, when councillors also considered the work involved in analysing the five proposed locations for the sports facility.

• Cambridge set to resume multiplex discussions Monday
• Cambridge needs time to pick final multiplex location, councillor says

"We don't own any of these lands, so that's the other issue we have to deal with,"said Mayor Doug Craig.

"We have an estimated cost on the lands, but we're going to do full blown appraisals and we're going to talk about the servicing into those lands, if possible.If, in fact, there may be clean up costs, how long that will take. All of these have to be put into a major report."

That major report is due in June and will be the next time council meets to discuss the issue.

The report may include exploring the idea of apublic/private partnership option to building the multiplex. Craig told The Morning Edition with Craig Norristhat option is being considered due to the multi-million dollar cost of some land the city is looking at for the proposed multiplex.

"Some of[the sites]are $25 million. Is it possible to purchase that site with a private developer who would put part of what he wants to build there in partnership with us and a multiplex," Craig said.

Although it has been at least two years since the proposal was put forward, and they are a year behind in building already,Craigassures the community the multiplex will be built.

"The decision would be made at the latest this fall and I would hope we could get into the ground by next year," he said.

Listen to Mayor Craig's interview here: