The “Barn” is once again overlooking scenic Belleisle Bay east of Saint John. Bates Barn is back in business.
Bates Barn, a popular spot for weddings and other events, has been quiet since February 2017 when it was destroyed by fire.
The new facility features a number of upgrades from the original.
“It has lots more windows,” said owner Janice Bates, noting one of the upgrades.
“It’s totally climate controlled, so in this hot weather you walk in and it’s so refreshing”
READ MORE: Devastating fire at Bates Barn, N.B. wedding, event venue, investigated as arson
The new barn is bigger and better in many ways, but still retains the ambiance of being in a barn. It can now also be used year-round.
There is also some irony to the first wedding in the new barn June 30th.
Why? “Because the couple who were married were the last couple to see the old barn in February of 2017, and they supported us and stuck with us when we decided to rebuild,” Bates explained.
As far as the arson case goes, no arrests have been made.
WATCH: Public urged to come forward with information on Bates Barn fire
RCMP say it remains under investigation, and was the July 3rd “Crime of the Week” on New Brunswick Crime Stoppers.
Bates is confident justice will eventually be served.
”For sure,” she said. “There’s more than one person involved so I do fully believe that, one day, someone or some people will be made accountable.”