lockview park redevelopment

The City of Port Colborne is seeking resident input on concept plans for the redevelopment of Lockview Park as part of the implementation of the 2020-2030 Parks and Recreation Master Plan.

Lockview Park is a parcel of open space between John Street and Crescent Street that contains a soccer field and public washrooms. Recognizing the opportunity to redevelop the park, City Council asked staff to engage the public and get their help in deciding the best uses for this community space. Letters were mailed to neighbourhood residents in May informing them of the City’s public engagement plan. An online survey as well as a project specific email address and phone extension were created to gather initial feedback. Together with the comments received at a virtual open house on June 2, staff retained MHBC Planning, Urban Design and Landscape Architecture to take all the collected feedback and turn it into concept plans for the park.

“MHBC completed the City’s Parks and Recreation Master Plan, so they seemed like a natural fit for this project,” said Gary Long, manager of strategic initiatives. "To align with the park’s name, the landscape architect added some unique landscape features, like turf mounds, that will create an inviting area for viewing the canal. We are very excited about how these and other features will transform Lockview Park.”

The two concept plans, presented at a second virtual open house on August 11, include a new multipurpose court that can be used for basketball, tennis, and pickleball. They also comprise several picnic tables, benches, a shaded sitting area, a natural playground structure, perennials, pathways, and signage.

Available now until Tuesday, August 31 at 11:59 p.m., residents can complete a short online poll that asks them to choose the concept they like best. These plans are also available on the City’s website. City staff will review the poll’s results and finalize a concept plan before going to Council for their approval in early fall.