DARRYL KNIGHT, The Standard
BROCK: At the Committee of the Whole meeting, on Monday, December 9th, Wayne Ward, Director of Parks, Recreation, and Facilities, presented a report summarizing public feedback on two proposed concepts for the revitalization of MacLeod Park, in Cannington.
The report stemmed from an Open House, held on October 24th, which saw about 25 residents and community group representatives attend, to share their thoughts on the future of the park. Additionally, 53 formal responses were received via email, by the November 11th deadline.
The feedback revealed strong community interest in creating a multi-purpose sports field, as the top priority, particularly championed by the Brock Rugby Club which submitted 38 responses. Other popular suggestions included: accessible pathways, a dog park, basketball and tennis courts, a splash pad, and enhancements to parking and landscaping.
“The sports field was a clear frontrunner, in terms of public interest,” said Mr. Ward. “However, we also received a wide variety of creative and thoughtful suggestions from other groups and individuals, which reflects the diverse ways the community envisions using this space.”
The Cannington Horticultural Society proposed a third concept, focused on maintaining open spaces, preserving the south baseball diamond, and enhancing the park’s natural appeal, through increased tree planting, meadow gardens, and native species. Their vision also included making roads near the park one-way and replacing delineation posts with hedges or shrubs.
The Cannington Historical Society emphasized practical upgrades, such as: permanent washrooms to replace portable toilets, improved parking solutions, and environmentally friendly alternatives to asphalt pathways. They also highlighted the need for ambient pathway lighting and enhanced signage.
Meanwhile, the Cannington Lions Club expressed general support for the plans, and the Trans Canada Trail organization encouraged the Township to seek grant funding for the project.
Concerns from Durham Region focused on wellhead protection, stormwater management, and the environmental impacts of proposed features like the dog park and the sports field.
The report outlined the next steps which are topographical surveying and geotechnical testing, at an estimated cost of $25,000. This testing will guide the design of the sports field, including its size, placement, and surface type. The proposed budget will be funded through the Parks Reserve, pending Council approval, during the 2025 budget deliberations.
Council was also advised to issue a Request for Proposal (RFP) to landscape architecture firms, for the final design and construction management of the sports field.
“This project represents a significant step forward in realizing a long-term vision for MacLeod Park,” Mr. Ward noted. “While some elements may take years to implement, starting with the sports field, [they] will lay the foundation for future enhancements.”
Mayor and Council members expressed appreciation for the community’s engagement in the planning process. “The input we’ve received highlights just how much MacLeod Park means to our residents,” said Mayor Walter Schummer. “It’s clear the community sees this space as a vital hub for recreation, nature, and gathering.”
The final decision on the park’s design and funding is expected to be made in early 2025.
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