The District is developing a park in the North Yards neighbourhood!

This neighbourhood park will be at the end of No Name Road. A Park Plan is being created based on community input, technical studies, and environmental considerations.

Archaeology

The interim Provincial archaeology study is complete. This is a required step before construction can begin. The next step is archaeology monitoring during construction before a final archaeology study is completed post-construction.

Tree Removal

The District recognizes that trees on this site are highly valued by the neighbourhood. Tree retention has been prioritized as part of the park design.

A certified arborist completed a detailed assessment of the health, species, and condition of trees on the site. Through this review, eleven trees were identified as danger trees due to poor health or structural instability. In addition, there were three snag trees within the future play area. Tree and invasive species (blackberry) removal has now been completed. An environmental monitor was on site to assess for bird nests in accordance with environmental best practices. No active nests were identified.

Site Analysis

The project team completed a site analysis to understand existing conditions and constraints. This included reviewing access points, sunlight, drainage, slopes, a site easement and existing paths and vegetation. The information gathered helped guide where park features could be located while minimizing environmental impacts and protecting the site’s natural character.

Park Plan

Work is underway to finalize the park design in alignment with the park budget. The Park Plan will be shared when it is finalized by the end of 2026.

Park Construction

The District is working towards construction and opening of the park in 2027.

Early in the project, the District invited the North Yards neighbourhood to share input on how the site is used today and what residents value for the future park. Feedback was reviewed and grouped into common themes.

Residents shared that maintaining the site’s natural feel is a priority, along with keeping well-used features and supporting nature-based play. Key themes included:

• Maintaining the natural character of the site and mature trees.
• Retaining the existing pump track.
• Prioritizing nature play over manufactured play equipment.
• Recognizing a loved former tree swing.
• Separating dog walkers and bikers from pedestrian and playground users.
• Removing invasive species and planting native plants

Using community input, environmental guidance, and technical analysis, a Park Plan is being created for the North Yards Neighbourhood Park. The Park Plan will show the general layout of the park and types of features being proposed. Play equipment selection will be based on a competitive bid process.

Key Design Considerations:

Protecting trees and natural areas

The concept plan will prioritize retaining mature trees and maintaining forested areas to preserve the site’s natural character and support informal, imaginative play.

Locating features in cleared areas

Play features will be proposed in areas that are already cleared to reduce impacts to natural areas and limit tree removal.

Play features

The design envisions manufactured equipment that will blend into the natural environment. The surrounding forest and nature play features will be available for unstructured play. Play equipment will feature swings, a slide, spinning, and climbing. Manufactured equipment has a long lifespan, withstands vandalism, and requires low maintenance.

Pump track retention

We are intending to retain the existing pump track. Paving the pump track with asphalt is being explored, or it may remain dirt.

Separating park users

Two paths will be proposed to help separate park users:

• An accessible path for pedestrians and children to access the play area and center of the park.
• A rugged path for dogs and bikes that avoids the central area of the park.

Seating opportunities

Seating will be proposed for resting, gathering, and supervising play.

Native and pollinator plants

Invasive species (blackberry) will be removed and replaced with native and pollinator-friendly plants.

Once the archeology study is complete, we look forward to sharing the Park Plan with you!