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Staff Report
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Report To: General Government Committee
Date of Meeting: June 1, 2020 Report Number: EGD-010-20
Submitted By: Ron Albright, Acting Director of Engineering Services Andrew C. Allison,
Reviewed By: CAO Resolution#: GG-125-20, GG-131/132-20, C-280-20
File Number: F.40.01 By-law Number:
Report Subject: Outdoor Recreation Needs Assessment (ORNA)
Recommendations:
1. That Report EGD-010-20 be received;
2. That the Outdoor Recreation Needs Assessment be approved as a guide for the
future provision of outdoor recreation facilities; and
3. That all interested parties listed in Report EGD-010-20 and any delegations be
advised of Council's decision.
Municipality of Clarington
Report EGD-010-20
Report Overview
Page 2
In June 2005, Clarington's Outdoor Recreation Facilities Study was approved by Council to
identify outdoor recreation facility needs within the municipality for the next 15 years.
The 2020 Outdoor Recreation Needs Assessment (ORNA) is a comprehensive update in
response to the significant changes in Clarington's population, demographics and trends in
outdoor facility use that have occurred since.
The intent of the ORNA is to provide the Municipality with evidence -based provision
strategies that reflect the outdoor recreation facility needs of current and future residents
living across the Municipality of Clarington.
1. Background
1.1 Clarington's rapid growth has created the need to update our strategy for the future
provision of outdoor recreations facilities. The Municipality provides outdoor recreation
facilities and amenities in our neighbourhood, community and municipal parks as well as
within our open space areas.
1.2 Factors affecting the provision and delivery of outdoor recreation facilities in Clarington
include:
• Escalating service expectations and budget pressures - A true understanding of the
Municipality's and the community's priorities is required as well as a need for
strategies to prioritize competing services and to prioritize public requests;
• Emerging trends and issues in the sport and recreation sector - Comprehensive
community consultation was used to identify the current recreation needs and
preferences of residents; and
Challenges meeting expectations of all residents throughout Clarington - Due to our
population being based in several distinct urban areas, it is more challenging to
manage expectations compared to other Durham Region municipalities.
1.3 In September 2019, Monteith Brown Planning Consultants were retained by the
Municipality to undertake an Outdoor Recreation Needs Assessment to assess and
provide provision strategies for the next 15 years. A steering committee of staff from
Engineering and Operations was established to work with the consultant on the project.
Municipality of Clarington
Report EGD-010-20
2. Project Scope
Page 3
2.1 The ORNA identifies outdoor recreation facility needs within the Municipality for the next
15 years to determine provision strategies to meet these needs in both the short and
long term. The ORNA focused on municipally owned property and facilities and other
public property that the Municipality leases, maintains or has joint use agreements for
(e.g. School Boards, Ontario Power Generation, etc.). The ORNA focuses solely upon
capital development and redevelopment opportunities associated with outdoor
recreation facilities and does not delve into operational matters such as maintenance,
booking/allocation, or rates and fees.
Facilities within the scope of the ORNA included:
• Sports fields (soccer, baseball, slo-pitch, softball, football, lacrosse, rugby, cricket)
• Tennis and pickleball courts
• Outdoor basketball courts
• Skateboard and BMX bike facilities
• Bocce courts
• Lawn bowling greens
• Leash -free dog parks
• Water play areas
• Recreational trails
• Community gardens
Not included in the assessment are:
• Indoor recreation facilities
• Playground equipment
• Outdoor pools
• Outdoor ice rinks
• Golf courses
• Ski hills
• Harbours/beaches
• Cemeteries
• Open space/natural areas
Municipality of Clarington Page 4
Report EGD-010-20
3. Methodology
3.1 Monteith Brown completed the ORNA after compiling and assessing the following key
information:
a) Inventory of outdoor recreation facilities in the Municipality of Clarington, including all
facilities that are available for public use;
b) Local, regional, and natural and emerging trends relating to outdoor recreational
participation and facility design. Trends in local usage were documented to assess
impact on future demand and provision;
c) Socio-demographic profile of the community to identify its implications on the current
and future demand for outdoor recreation;
d) Input from community stakeholders, municipal staff, and the general public;
e) Current requirements for outdoor recreation facilities in relation to the needs and
priorities of the users. This assessment considered demographics, distribution of
existing facilities, distinctiveness of communities, usage patterns, emerging needs,
how the current inventory of facilities and services is meeting those needs,
community input, etc.; and
f) The number of outdoor recreation facilities needed to meet future requirements
considering demographic forecasts, leisure participation and facility design trends
and community input.
4. Community Input
4.1 Consultation with stakeholders and the public was a key component to this Study.
Approximately 20 stakeholder groups were invited to provide input at the initial public
Open House in September 2019. Focused stakeholder meetings to identify and discuss
issues and concerns followed in October 2019. A second public Open House in
February 2020 presented preliminary findings prior to confirming the Study's
recommendations. Engage Clarington was also used throughout the planning process
to assess public opinion and usage patterns related to outdoor recreation by way of a
community survey and direct commenting opportunities. These consultation activities
are summarized in the table below.
4.2 Through this process, input was obtained from the community and user groups on
current issues, trends, future needs, partnership arrangements, and potential strategies.
The community consultation process aimed to facilitate input and consensus of the
ORNA while also communicating challenges and realistic expectations. Outdoor
Municipality of Clarington
Report EGD-010-20
recreation facility users were circulated a copy of the draft ORNA in April 2020 to
provide opportunity for feedback prior to finalization.
Page 5
Consultation Activity
Date
Number of Participants
Engage Clarington Information &
Initiated September 15,2019
Input Portal
and ongoing through
598 page visits
study period
ORNA Launch Event
September 26, 2019
40 +
Community Survey
September 23 to October
383 surveys
21, 2019
Sports Field Users Focus Group
October 16, 2019
14
Outdoor Recreation
October 16, 2019
9
Representatives Focus Group
Municipal Staff Roundtable
October 16, 2019
5
Preliminary Findings Public Open
February 4, 2020
25 +
House
Draft ORNA Commenting Period
(through Engage Clarington &
April 15 to April 30, 2020
13 submissions
Outreach to Stakeholders)
ORNA Presentation to General
June 1, 2020
Not applicable
Government Committee
5. Implementation
5.1 The ORNA spans a 15-year planning period. Facility development action plans are
proposed for the facilities within the project scope including ball fields, rectangular fields
(soccer, football, lacrosse), community gardens, trails, court sports (basketball, tennis,
pickleball) and others. The action plans are summarized in three five-year intervals
covering the 15-year planning period. The action plans will be used as a guide for future
capital development.
Municipality of Clarington Page 6
Report EGD-010-20
5.2 The substantial population growth forecasted in Clarington, along with evolving
participation preferences, has the potential to alter future needs and demands for
outdoor recreation facilities. A comprehensive review of the ORNA every five years
should be considered in order to reflect any changes to the supply, opportunities to
accommodate new infrastructure through parks that have been added in the various
settlement areas, sociodemographic characteristics in Clarington, and respond to trends
in outdoor recreation activity.
6. Concurrence
Not applicable.
7. Conclusion
It is respectfully recommended that the Outdoor Recreation Needs Assessment be
approved as a guide for the future provision of outdoor recreation facilities. The Outdoor
Recreation Needs Assessment provides the Municipality with a comprehensive guide
for the future provision of outdoor recreation. It also provides recommended actions for
improving our existing supply of outdoor recreation through upgrading and converting
some existing facilities. The recommendations are based on consultation with
stakeholder/user groups, the public, municipal staff from Engineering, Operations and
Community Services departments, trends, research, population projections, existing
user data, facility assessments, and future parkland provision.
Staff Contact: Peter Windolf, Park Development Manager, 905-326-3379, Ext. 2307 or
pwindolf@clarington.net.
Attachments:
Attachment 1 - Outdoor Recreation Needs Assessment Report
Interested Parties:
List of Interested Parties available from Department.
f
■ [ • I •
Attachment 1 to Report EGD010-20
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Municipality of Clarington
Outdoor Recreation Needs Assessment
FINAL REPORT
May 22, 2020
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Table of Contents
1. Introduction............................................................................................................................1
1.1 Purpose.................................................................................................................................................................................................1
1.2 Project Scope.....................................................................................................................................................................................1
1.3 Project Methodology......................................................................................................................................................................2
2. Clarington Community Profile..............................................................................................3
2.1 Population Growth...........................................................................................................................................................................3
2.2 Geographic Distribution of the Population............................................................................................................................4
2.3 Population Growth by Age Cohort............................................................................................................................................5
2.4 Income & Education of the Population...................................................................................................................................6
3. ORNA Community Engagement...........................................................................................7
3.1
Overview of Engagement Activities..........................................................................................................................................7
3.2
Engage Clarington...........................................................................................................................................................................8
3.3
ORNA Launch Event........................................................................................................................................................................8
3.4
Community Survey...........................................................................................................................................................................9
3.5
Sports Field Users Focus Group................................................................................................................................................12
3.6
Outdoor Recreation Focus Group............................................................................................................................................13
3.7
Municipality of Clarington Staff Workshop.........................................................................................................................14
3.8
Preliminary Findings Public Open House..............................................................................................................................15
3.9
Draft ORNA Public Commenting Period...............................................................................................................................15
4. Sports Field Assessments.................................................................................................... 16
4.1 Summary of Sports Fields...........................................................................................................................................................16
4.2 Rectangular Sports Fields............................................................................................................................................................18
4.3 Ball Diamonds..................................................................................................................................................................................24
4.4 Cricket Grounds..............................................................................................................................................................................28
S. Sport Court Assessments.................................................................................................... 29
5.1 Summary of Sports Courts..........................................................................................................................................................29
5.2 Tennis Courts...................................................................................................................................................................................30
5.3 Pickleball Courts..............................................................................................................................................................................33
5.4 Basketball Courts............................................................................................................................................................................36
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6. Other Recreation Facility Assessments............................................................................. 38
6.1 Summary of Other Recreation Facilities................................................................................................................................38
6.2 Recreational Trails..........................................................................................................................................................................39
6.3 Skateboard and BMX Parks........................................................................................................................................................42
6.4 Leash -Free Dog Parks...................................................................................................................................................................44
6.5 Splash Pads.......................................................................................................................................................................................45
6.6 Community Gardens.....................................................................................................................................................................47
6.7 Bocce Courts & Lawn Bowling Greens...................................................................................................................................48
7. Non -Capital Considerations............................................................................................... 49
7.1 Facility Allocation, Scheduling & Pricing..............................................................................................................................49
7.2 Data Collection & Performance Measurement..................................................................................................................49
7.3 Considering Strategic Partnerships.........................................................................................................................................50
8. Implementation Strategy................................................................................................... 51
8.1 Implementing the ORNA.............................................................................................................................................................51
8.2 Estimated Capital Costs...............................................................................................................................................................53
Appendix A: Community Survey Results
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1. Introduction
1.1 Purpose
The Outdoor Recreation Needs Assessment (ORNA) identifies the type and number of selected outdoor recreation
facilities that are required in Clarington over the next 15 years. The ORNA is a comprehensive update to the
Municipality of Clarington 2005 Outdoor Recreation Facilities Study in response to the significant changes in
Clarington's population and trends in outdoor facility use that have since occurred.
The intent of the ORNA is to provide the Municipality with fiscally -responsible, evidence -based provision strategies
that reflect the outdoor recreation facility needs of current and future residents living across the Municipality of
Clarington. In doing so, Municipal Council and Staff can allocate appropriate resources towards the development of
identified facilities through parks planning and capital budgeting processes. In addition, residents and local outdoor
recreation user groups will benefit from an understanding of outdoor needs with an implementation plan that can
assist those stakeholders in planning their own programs over time.
1.2 Project Scope
In accordance with the Municipality of Clarington's Terms of Reference for the ORNA, the scope of this project
provides guidance with respect to the need for the following types of facilities that are situated on Municipally -
owned property along with other publically available property that the Municipality leases, maintains or has joint -
use agreements with third parties:
• Sports fields (rectangular fields, ball diamonds, cricket pitches);
• Tennis and pickleball courts;
• Outdoor basketball courts
• Skateboard and BMX bike facilities;
• Leash -free dog parks;
• Waterplay areas;
• Bocce courts;
• Lawn bowling greens; and
• Recreational trails.
Facilities that are not part of the ORNA scope of work as per the project's Terms of Reference include: indoor
recreation facilities, playground equipment, outdoor pools, outdoor ice rinks, golf courses, ski hills,
harbours/beaches, cemeteries and open space/natural areas. Further, the ORNA focuses solely upon capital
development and redevelopment opportunities associated with outdoor recreation facilities and does not delve into
operational matters such as maintenance, booking/allocation, rates and fees, and communications.
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Monteith Brown Planning Consultants Ltd.
1.3 Project Methodology
The ORNA was initiated in August 2019 after award of the project to Monteith Brown Planning Consultants Ltd. The
planning process consisted of three logical phases that group similar tasks and cumulatively built towards the final
end -product:
Phase 1: Research & Consultation
Phase 2: Preparing the draft Outdoor Recreation Needs Assessments
Phase 3: Testing and finalizing the Outdoor Recreation Needs Assessments
Phase 1 consisted of reviews of relevant background documentation, analysis of community demographics, trends
research, inventories and field work, and comprehensive community engagement efforts. Consultations involved
members of the general public, stakeholders and user groups of the local outdoor recreation system, and Municipal
Staff. Feedback was received through a variety of in -person and written opportunities using the Municipality's online
engagement platform (Engage Clarington), open houses, workshops, focus groups, and surveys.
Phase 2 analyzed information gathered through research and initial consultations as part of outdoor recreation
assessments. Phases 1 and 2 culminated into an Interim Report that presented preliminary directions that were
tested with the public in February 2020. Phase 3 refined needs assessments and facility Action Plans based on input
received from Staff, stakeholders and the public into draft and final versions of the ORNA.
Artificial Turf Field at South Courtice Community Park
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Monteith Brown Planning Consultants Ltd.
2. Clarington Community Profile
2.1 Population Growth
The number of residents living within the Municipality of Clarington influences the need for outdoor recreation
facilities. With the most current population estimate for the Municipality standing at 102,338 persons,' Clarington's
population has grown by more than 24,500 persons (32%) since the 2005 Outdoor Recreation Facilities Study was
prepared. As a result, the Municipality has developed outdoor recreation facilities to keep pace while trying to
balance fiscal realities of maintaining infrastructure already in place.
The ORNA study period extends over a 15 year period. The Municipality of Clarington Planning Services Department
indicates that the Community Forecast Update 2013 contains the approved growth forecast to the year 2031, but
that no forecasts have been approved beyond; as a result, the Department advises that a straight-line average
growth rate be applied to arrive at a year 2035 population. On this basis, the ORNA assumes that the Municipality
of Clarington will reach 153,600 persons by the end of its planning horizon, amounting to growth of more than
51,000 persons or 50%.
Figure 1 illustrates historical and projected population growth in the Municipality of Clarington.
Figure 1: Population Growth, 2001-2016
160,000
150,000
140,000
130,000
123,900
120,000
0
110,000 .6 , 109,800
0
100,000
97,100
90,000 87,700
80,000 0,900
70,000 2,600
60,000
153,600
140,400
2001 2006 2011 2016 2021 2026 2031 2035
Note: historical and projected figures have been adjusted to include net census undercount of 3.73%. Year 2035 population is
estimated using a straight-line average growth rate as directed by the Planning Services Department.
Source: Clarington Community Forecast Update 2013, Memorandum from Hemson Consulting dated January 25, 2013.
Municipality of Clarington Planning Services Department. Population is considered current as of December 2018 and is used as the baseline
figure for the year 2019 population.
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2.2 Geographic Distribution of the Population
Clarington is a geographically large municipality, spanning over 611 square kilometres through which the
population is distributed across three primary urban areas along with a number of hamlets and rural settlements.
The 2016 Census records Clarington's population density at 150 persons per square kilometre, lower than density
recorded for Durham Region (256 persons per square kilometre) but an increase compared to the Municipality's
2006 density of 127 persons per square kilometre.
Geographically large municipalities with lower population density can sometimes face greater challenges regarding
the financing of construction and ongoing maintenance associated with outdoor recreation facilities relative to
communities with higher population density. However, Clarington's population density has increased since 2006
largely due to broader trends in land development and provincial policies directing growth to designated
settlements and areas of intensification.
The urban communities of Bowmanville, Courtice and Newcastle presently account for more than four out of five
Clarington residents (83%) and continue to be the primary designated settlements for future residential growth
allocations in accordance with the Municipality of Clarington Official Plan along with Region of Durham and
provincial growth policies. Collectively, the three urban areas will account for 91% of all future growth projected by
the year 2031 as shown in Table 1; Bowmanville is forecasted to add over 19,000 persons, the most of any settlement,
while Newcastle is projected to have the greatest percentage increase in its population at a 56% growth.
Table 1: Distribution of Population by Settlement Area, 2019-2031
Population
Settlement
Population
Share of
..MuniciMunicipality
•..ulation
Share of
2018 to
+ 19,065
Bowmanville
45,135
44%
64,200
46%
(42%)
+ 8,702
Courtice
27,898
27%
36,600
26%
(31%)
+ 6,897
Newcastle
12,403
12%
19,300
14%
(56%)
+ 3,398
Orono & Rural Settlements
16,902
17%
20,300
14%
(20%)
+38,062
Total-00
Note- fioures include net census undercount
of 3.73% and are current
as of December 2018. Forecasts
bevond the vear
2031
are presently unavailable.
Source: Municipality of Clarington Planning Services Department; Clarington Community Forecast Update 2013, Memorandum
from Hemson Consulting dated January 25, 2013.
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Page 4
2.3 Population Growth by Age Cohort
The average age of Municipality of Clarington residents is 39 years, slightly younger than that of Durham Region
and Ontario as a whole (40 and 41 years, respectively) based on 2016 Census data. Among all residents, one out of
four (25%) are 19 years of age and younger and slightly more than one out of four (26%) are 55 years and over.
Figure 2: Proportional Age Structure, 2016
70+ years, 9%_\
55 to 69 years, 1
35 to 54 years, 29
Source: Statistics Canada, 2016 Census
0 to 9 vears. 1 20
10 to 19 years, 13%
20 to 34 years, 19%
Over the ten year period between 2021 and 2031, significant increases are projected among children under 10 years
of age (+6,980 persons), adults between 35 and 54 (+8,750 persons), and older adults 70 years of age and over
(+5,540 persons). The age cohorts have not been extrapolated to the year 2035.
Table 2: Forecasted Growth by Age Cohort
Age Group
0 to 9 years
2016
10,280
2021
11,550
2031
18,530
A Population
6,980 (60%)
10 to 19 years
13,440
13,180
14,890
1,710 (13%)
20 to 34 years
20,230
27,790
33,800
6,010 (22%)
35 to 54 years
25,750
24,260
33,010
8,750 (36%)
55 to 69 years
15,390
18,380
18,850
470 (3%)
70+ years
8,430
10,590
16,130
5,540 (52%)
Total
93,520
105,750
135,210
29,460 (28%)
Source Clarinaton Communitv Forecast Update
2013. Memorandum from Hemson Consultina dated
January 25, 2013
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2.4 Income & Education of the Population
Studies correlate the frequency of participation in recreational activities to level of income, recognizing that income
can be a barrier to participation to households that may not be able to afford to engage in recreation as often as
they may wish. Similarly, a higher educational attainment is also attributable to higher levels of recreational activity.
The following points are derived from the 2016 Census relating to income and education in the Municipality of
Clarington.
The median annual income of Clarington households was approximately $96,000, which was 6.5% higher than
Durham Region and 29% higher than that of the province as a whole. Notwithstanding higher than average levels
of household income, over 5,800 persons were recorded as living in low income households as measured by
Statistics Canada's Low Income Measure (LIM-AT), amounting to 6% of the population; Of this total, over 1,700
persons were below the age of 18. There were also over 2,700 persons living under the Low Income Cut -Off (LICO),
or 3% of the population. By comparison, 10% of Durham Region's population falls within the LIM-AT while 6% live
below the LICO.
Clarington's levels of post -secondary educational attainment is comparable to the Region and Province. The
Municipality has a higher share of residents with apprenticeships/trades certificates and college diplomas than
Durham and a slightly lower share of university educated residents.
On the basis of income and education alone, participation rates among Clarington residents can be expected to be
similar to or slightly higher than Durham Region and the Province of Ontario.
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I ORNA Community Engagement
3.1 Overview of Engagement Activities
The ORNA involved a significant community engagement program in order to provide residents and stakeholders
of the outdoor recreation system to contribute ideas and opinions aimed at meeting their needs and improving
their experiences. The following activities were undertaken in support of the ORNA.
Consultation Activity
Date
Number of
Participa
Engage Clarington Information &
Initiated September 15, 2019 and
598
Input Portal
ongoing through study period
page visits
ORNA Launch Event
September 26, 2019
40+
Community Survey
September 23 to October 21, 2019
383
surveys
Sports Field Users Focus Group
October 16, 2019
14
Outdoor Recreation Representatives
October 16, 2019
9
Focus Group
Municipal Staff Roundtable
October 16, 2019
5
Preliminary Findings Public Open
February 4, 2020
25+
House
Draft ORNA Commenting Period
(through Engage Clarington &
April 15 to April 30, 2020
13 submissions
Outreach to Stakeholders)
ORNA Presentation to General
June 1, 2020
Not Applicable
Government Committee
The summary of feedback presented in this Section has not been altered, even in instances where public perceptions
may not reflect actual municipal practices or provision levels. Attitudes, opinions and preferences of the community
are considered in conjunction with provincial and regional trends as part of needs assessments carried out for
outdoor recreation facilities.
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3.2 Engage Clarington
A page dedicated to the ORNA was hosted on Engage Clarington, the Municipality's online portal for ongoing
projects. Through Engage Clarington, the ORNA provided information regarding the study process and timelines,
advertised opportunities to participate, and allowed visitors to contribute ideas directly to Municipal Staff and the
Consultants. Comments received to date included requests for:
• more outdoor sports fields and greater maintenance activities;
• additional basketball courts, volleyball courts, and pickleball courts; and
• more trails, trees, picnic areas, garbage cans and recycling bins to be located in parks.
The ORNA portal received 598 visits over the course of the planning process. In addition to the portal, the
Municipality used posters and paid advertising to raise awareness about the study in order to inform the community
about the ORNA and ways that they could contribute to the planning process.
3.3 ORNA Launch Event
An open house was held on September 261", 2019 at the Garnet B. Rickard Recreation Complex in order to introduce
the ORNA to the public. Municipal Staff, the project Consultants and some members of Municipal Council attended
the open house to engage residents and obtain their feedback. Given the high -traffic nature of the venue — the
open house was held in the lobby on a Clarington Eagles game night — not all attendees formally signed -in but it is
estimated that between 40 and 50 individuals were engaged in conversations about the ORNA. The majority of
discussions centred upon the need for additional pickleball and tennis courts, ball diamonds and rectangular fields,
recreational trails, outdoor aquatics infrastructure, off -leash dog parks, and community gardens.
U
ORNA Launch Event at the Garnet B. Rickard Recreation Complex
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3.4 Community Survey
A community survey sought feedback from Clarington residents regarding their
participation, preferences and priorities to inform the Outdoor Recreation Needs
Assessment. Active for a six week period, the survey captured 383 responses with
notable points as follows:
• Respondents were most likely to have used recreational trails, splash
pads, soccer fields, baseball diamonds, and slo-pitch/softball diamonds
in the past twelve months. The top five priorities for additional spending
were aligned with these same outdoor recreation facilities.
• In total, 88% stated that investments in outdoor recreation facilities
should be a high priority for Municipal Council and 75% agreed with the
same for trails.
• In terms of geographic distribution, 41% did not believe that outdoor
recreation facilities are located equitably across the Municipality of
Clarington. Furthermore, 49% do not believe that outdoor recreation
facilities meet the needs of all age groups.
• One out of three respondents state that a lack of desired outdoor 60% of respondents belong
recreation facilities prevents them from participating as much as they to an outdoor recreation
would like while approximately one in four are too busy. organization or club
• Municipality of Clarington citizens comprised 96% of the survey sample
with completions from Bowmanville, Courtice and Newcastle residents
that were in the general range of population distribution across the
Municipality (Bowmanville residents were slightly over -represented and
rural populations were slightly under -represented). Approximately 60%
of respondents reported being involved with an outdoor recreation club.
The pages that follow summarize some feedback from the survey while Appendix
A contains a tabulated summary of all completed survey responses.
12%
ilry
The average
household size of
the survey sample
was 4.0 people
■ Bowmanville
■ Courtice
Newcastle
■ Other
Outdoor Recreation Needs Assessment I May 2020 Page 9
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-lk
A
Nlo'
Aze
-MEOW,Si
pow
N
Agreement with Statements about Outdoor
Recreation Facilities in Clarington
Trails in Clarington connect me to places that
1 like to ga. 3D%
The Municipality's outdoor recreation
facilities are accessible for persons with sm—
24%
disabilities or special needs.
The Municipality's outdoor recreation
facilities meet the needs of all ages. 49°�°
Outdoor recreation facilities are distributed
equitably throughout the Municipality. 41%
Investment in trails should be a high priority
for Municipal Council
Investment in outdoor recreation facilities
should be a high priority for Municipal Council
■ Agree
J
Disagree
33% 38% 18% 13% 13%
Lack of Activity Not
Lack of desired Lack of Personal Information Offered at a
outdoor facilities Time / Too Busy Unaware of
Convenient Time
Opportunities
Lack of Money
Too Expensive
3.5 Sports Field Users Focus Group
A focus group was held at the Garnet B. Rickard Recreation Complex with local sports field users to discuss their
opinions, issues and opportunities. The focus group was attended by representatives from the following
organizations:
• Bowmanville Dodgers
• Bowmanville Older Adult Association
• Clarington Baseball Association
• Clarington Cubs
• Clarington Girls Slo-Pitch Association
• Clarington Minor Football
• Clarington Renegades
• Darlington Soccer Club
• Newcastle Slo-Pitch
• Oldtimers Service Club League
A summary of the main points of discussions is presented below:
• Participants expressed the need to design sports
fields and trails to the proper specifications in a
manner that considers not only the size and
surfacing of the facilities but also where fields are
located, as well as considering geotechnical factors
and installing appropriate sub -surface infrastructure
in response (e.g. to mitigate flooding). Groups
emphasized a need to improve existing facilities just
as much as the need to construct new ones.
Fields should also be supported by necessary
amenities such as washrooms, scoreboards/game
clocks, parking lots, lighting, and irrigation systems.
Certain groups indicated that they would be willing to contribute towards facility upgrades or more frequent
maintenance through financial means or volunteer labour as organizations stated that they would receive
a definitive return on investment.
• Accessibility is an important aspect that the Municipality needs to consider at new and existing parks.
Comments ranged from providing accessible facilities (e.g. Challenger baseball diamonds), circulation paths
within a park, and provision of amenities such as accessible washrooms and change rooms.
• Groups indicated that communication with Municipal staff has become better in recent years, particularly
around field maintenance but there continues to be opportunities to improve.
• Ball groups reported stable to growing registrations which they attribute to factors ranging from population
growth to greater interest in the Toronto Blue Jays as of late.
• Certain ball diamond users indicated that they could have fielded additional teams but were unable to due
to an inability to secure additional diamond times and lack of ball diamonds that are large enough to
accommodate adult or competitive -level play. If provided with additional full-sized and/or lit diamonds, ball
groups could eliminate their waiting lists and accommodate Clarington residents that are presently being
turned away instead of having to play elsewhere in Durham Region.
• Soccer indicated that house league registrations have remained stable though changes arising from Long
Term Player Development are resulting in needs for additional small fields (e.g. for 30, 5v5 and 7v7 play).
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• Football indicated that having access to artificial turf is critical to their programming but they believe the
rental cost of the turf field in South Courtice is too expensive and thus play on artificial turf in other
municipalities and at post -secondary institutions.
• Some field sports groups reported that their players are less willing to play or practice on weekends during
the summer months, thereby creating peak -pressures for time on weekday evenings.
• A number of comments were received pertaining to facility scheduling and allocation practices,
maintenance, rates and fees, and other operational matters. These comments were noted but groups were
informed that the ORNA focuses on capital infrastructure needs.
3.6 Outdoor Recreation Focus Group
A focus group was held at the Garnet B. Rickard Recreation Complex with local users of the outdoor recreation
system to discuss their opinions, issues and opportunities. The focus group was attended by representatives from
the following organizations:
• Bowmanville Older Adult Association
• Bowmanville Allotment Garden
• Courtice Indoor Pickleball
• Liberty Allotment Garden
• Newcastle Indoor/Outdoor Pickleball
• Soper Creek Allotment Garden Committee
A summary of the main points of discussions is presented below:
• Community gardening is a form of recreation that contributes towards physical and mental health, social
connectedness, food security, charitable giving, environmental appreciation, and sustainable development.
A Green Community Report prepared in 2010 articulates the benefits of gardens and recommends their
development.
• The Bowmanville Allotment Gardens is looking for a replacement allotment garden since their existing
garden is being slated for redevelopment to a helipad for the Bowmanville Hospital. Some participants
suggested that the former Bowmanville Zoo or vacant spaces within parks could accommodate a
community garden. Construction of community gardens throughout neighbourhoods across Clarington
was also suggested whether within parks, vacant or derelict properties, in partnerships with businesses, etc.
• The pickleball organizations report in excess of 200 players, the majority of whom are older adults but the
groups are exploring ways to attract a younger demographic. They are seeking dedicated pickleball courts,
preferably grouped together where possible, but are also open to multi -use templates shared with tennis
or other hard surface court activities.
• Trails are highly valued and there is an opportunity to improve connectivity throughout the entire
Municipality, while also supporting trails with amenities such as seating, shade, signage, and appropriate
surfacing materials (ranging from woodchips to asphalt).
• Groups support a community development and partnership mindset that leverages their expertise so that
no one party has to go it alone. They have volunteers ready and willing to work with the Municipality to
achieve their long-term program delivery objectives.
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3.7 Municipality of Clarington Staff Workshop
Staff from the Community Services Department, Engineering and Building Services Department, and Operations
Department participated in a workshop to discuss outdoor recreation facility needs. A summary of the main points
of discussions is presented below:
• The Municipality is receiving more requests for higher quality and full sized ball diamonds which seems to
be a reversal from 10 years ago. Allocation of diamonds is something that the Municipality could look into
to see if additional ball groups can gain access to times. That said, there are plans to construct some new
diamonds in the future at Neighbourhood and Community Parks.
• Soccer fields tend to be well used but Staff think the artificial turf field may not being booked to the degree
originally envisioned, however, the turf has allowed groups to play during the shoulder seasons.
• Pickleball has emerged as a popular sport, first within gymnasiums/halls and now players are looking to
participate outdoors.
• Staff are receiving requests for outdoor fitness equipment and have moved to provide this in some new
parks (e.g. Rickard Neighbourhood Park in Newcastle). There may be interest from community groups to
develop a fitness trail in partnership with the Municipality, something that may lend itself well along the
Waterfront Trail (or another trail route) in Clarington.
• Off -leash areas seem to be well used and positioned to meet future demands that may arise from
population growth or higher rates of dog ownership.
• An opportunity exists to add needed outdoor recreation facilities in Newcastle adjacent to the Diane Hamre
Recreation Complex, recognizing that some of that land will be allocated to a future expansion of the
community centre.
• The north Bowmanville area is growing heavily and will likely require additional parks and outdoor
recreation facilities to support these neighbourhoods. However, the process of acquiring parkland to
support new development is changing due to pending provincial legislation that could eliminate or reduce
the ability of municipalities to acquire parkland based on the number of dwelling units.
• Off -road trails are in high demand as people look to connect with nature. Trail development will be guided
by an Active Transportation Master Plan scheduled to take place in the year 2020.
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3.8 Preliminary Findings Public Open House
Building on the ORNA's first round of consultation and research carried out for the study, the community was re-
engaged in early 2020 through the Engage Clarington website and by way of a Public Open House held at the
Courtice Community Complex on February 4, 2020. The intent of consulting the community at this time was to
present common themes from the initial consultations and provide residents/stakeholders with an opportunity to
correct or supplement what was originally heard. The community was also asked to review "Preliminary Directions"
that the Consultants and Municipal Staff had developed based on Phase 1 works carried out for the ORNA, to
understand the degree of support along with any concerns from the public prior to initiating more comprehensive
needs assessments for Phase 2 of the study process.
Approximately 25 people were engaged in discussions through the Public Open House, six of whom also submitted
written feedback using comment sheets that were made available. The following are consolidated themes arising
out of the conversations and comment sheets received through the Public Open House:
• The majority of comments received pertained to the local trails system, with many people agreeing with
Preliminary Directions that focused on trail connectivity, linkages with destinations, and support for
undertaking the planned Active Transportation Master Plan. A few comments also emphasized the
importance of on -road and off -road bicycle trails.
• Support was expressed for new ball diamonds, soccer fields and tennis courts to be constructed in
Clarington. A request for sand volleyball courts was also received.
• Splash pads are appreciated and continue to be desired, potentially going a step further by creating a "water
park" within the Municipality.
• A few attendees emphasized that multi -use courts for basketball, ball hockey and other youth -oriented
court activities are important, particularly as Clarington continues to attract young families. A
skateboard/BMX park was also requested in South Courtice.
3.9 Draft ORNA Public Commenting Period
A public commenting period was initiated in April 2020 to allow residents and stakeholders to offer comments prior
to finalization of the ORNA. The Draft ORNA was posted on Engage Clarington while emails were distributed to
outdoor recreation stakeholders. While an open house was originally planned, its timing coincided with the onset
of the COVID-19 pandemic which negated the ability to present the ORNA in -person. Comments received regarding
the Draft ORNA pertained to:
• General support for ORNA recommendations with emphasis on building facilities to keep pace with
population growth and requests for facility provision to consider geographic distribution across Clarington.
• A desire for higher quality design of sports fields and improving existing fields, with softball diamonds in
particular being mentioned in multiple responses. Greater levels of maintenance and improved
scheduling/allocation practices were also requested although these items are beyond the ORNA's scope.
• A desire for more cycling and walking trails.
• Support for child and youth -focused facilities such as splash pads and skateboard parks.
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4. Sports Field Assessments
4.1 Summary of Sports Fields
Table 3 summarizes outdoor sports fields owned by the Municipality of Clarington.
Table 3: Outdoor Recreation Facility Inventory
Rectangular Fields
47 (50)
Artificial Turf: South Courtice Community Park
Artificial Turf
1 (2)
Natural Turf - Lit: Clarington Fields, Darlington Hydro Fields (2),
Natural Turf - Lit
4 (6)
South Courtice Community Park
Natural Turf - Unlit
18
Natural Turf - Unlit: Baxter Park, Burketon Park, Clarington
Intermediate/Mini Fields
24
Fields (2), Courtice Memorial Park, Darlington Sports Centre, Elliot
Memorial Park, Highland Park, Longworth Park (2), Northglen
Park, Optimist Park, Pearce Farm Park, Rickard Neighbourhood
Park, Scugog Street Neighbourhood Park, South Courtice
Community Park, Tyrone Park, West Side Drive Park
Intermediate/Mini Fields: Baseline Park, Burketon Park, Green
Park, Clarington Fields (4), Courtice Community Complex,
Darlington Hydro Fields (3), Harry Gay Park, Newcastle Memorial
Park, Optimist Park (2), Orono Fairgrounds (2), Penfound Park,
Roswell Park, Solina Park, Tyrone Park, Walbridge Park (2), Zion
Park
School Fields in regular use include Bowmanville High School,
Clarington Central Secondary School, Clarke Secondary School,
and Holy Trinity Secondary School
Notes: Equivalent supply is shown in parenthesis () whereby
artificial turf and natural lit turf are counted as the equivalent of
2.0 and 1.5 natural unlit fields, respectively, due to additional
capacity for use. Selected full size fields are also used for
intermediate and mini field play.
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Facility .-
Supply
Location
Hardball Diamonds
6 (8)
Championship Baseball: Clarington Fields (2)
Championship Baseball — Lit
2 (3)
Standard Baseball — Lit: Harvey Jackson Park, Soper Creek Park
Standard Baseball — Lit
2 (3)
Standard Baseball — Unlit: Longworth Park, Penfound Park
Standard Baseball — Unlit
2
Note: lit ball diamonds are counted as the equivalent of 1.5 unlit
diamonds due to their additional capacity for use. Equivalent
supply is shown in parenthesis.
Softball / Slo-Pitch
24 (27)
Championship Softball: Clarington Fields (2)
Diamonds
2 (3)
Standard Softball — Lit: Bowmanville Memorial Park, Orono Park,
Championship Softball — Lit
4 (6)
Rickard Recreation Complex (2)
Standard Softball — Lit
18
Standard Softball — Unlit: Argent Park, Bowmanville Memorial
Standard Softball — Unlit
Park, Burketon Park, Courtice West Park, Edward Park, Elephant
Scrub Diamonds
Hill Park (2), Highland Park, Kendal Park, Lord Elgin Park (2),
Optimist Park, Rhonda Park, Roswell Park, Solina Park, Stuart Park,
Tyrone Park (2)
Scrub Diamonds: Kendal Park, Solina Park, Tyrone Park
School Diamonds in regular use include Central Public School,
Courtice North Public School, Dr. Ross Tilley Public School, MJ
Hobbs Senior Public School, Vincent Massey Public School, Good
Shepherd Elementary School and Monsignor Cleary Elementary
School.
Note: Equivalent supply is shown in parenthesis () whereby lit ball
diamonds are counted as the equivalent of 1.5 unlit diamonds
due to their additional capacity for use.
Soper Creek Park Ball Diamond
Tyrone Park Rectangular Field
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4.2 Rectangular Sports Fields
There are a total of 47 rectangular fields in Clarington that are primarily used for sports such as soccer, football, and
field lacrosse. The distribution of fields is shown in Table 4 and Figure 3. The supply includes lit artificial turf and
natural grass fields in Courtice along with two lit natural grass fields at the Darlington Hydro Fields; lit and artificial
turf fields allow greater use compared to unlit natural fields, typically amounting to a 50% gain in playable capacity
for lit natural fields and a 100% gain for artificial turf. In addition, nearly 400 hours were rented at 4 high school
fields, thus these fields are reflected in the supply. Accordingly, the effective supply of rectangular fields available in
the Municipality is considered to be 54.0 unlit equivalent fields while the geographic distribution across Clarington
is shown in Figure 3.
Table 4: Rectangular Field Inventory by Settlement, 2019
Community
Full Fields
Artificial Lit
1 (2.0)
Natural Lit
4(6.0)
Natural Unlit
18
Total
26.0
Per Capita
3,936
Bowmanville
-
3(4.5)
9
13.5
3,343
Courtice
1 (2.0)
1 (1.5)
3
6.5
4,292
Newcastle
-
-
2
2
6,202
Orono
-
-
-
Rural
4
4
4,226
Intermediate/Mini Fields
24
24.0
4,264
Bowmanville
-
-
11
11
4,103
Courtice
-
-
4
4
6,975
Newcastle
-
-
3
3
4,134
Orono
-
-
6
6
Rural
2,817
Municipality Fields
50.0
Permitted School Fields
1
1 4
1 4
•
In addition to the above noted fields, the Municipality's 10-year development charge forecast identifies three new
fields to be constructed as part of Neighbourhood Park developments planned to occur by the year 2025.
Public Input
Sports field users participating in ORNA focus groups emphasized that fields need to be designed in a manner that
facilitates the desired level of play, minimizes field closures due weather and drainage -related issues, and are
supported by required amenities namely washrooms and vehicular parking. More specifically, soccer users
requested smaller field sizes in line with Long Term Player Development (LTPD) through the provincial sport body
while football expressed a desire for access to artificial turf fields at a lower rental rate than presently incurred.
Through the ORNA survey, soccer fields were reported as the third -most used outdoor recreation facility and were
used for 48% of the sample. In addition, 8% reported use of football fields, 7% used lacrosse fields and 1% used
rugby fields. Approximately one out of five survey respondents (20%) prioritized additional investment in soccer
fields while other rectangular field sports received priority ratings between 1 % and 4%.
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Figure 3: Distribution of Rectangular Fields
Park Name
N D
I Kilometres
Monteith!Brl wn
Note: School fields not shown
Analysis — Artificial Turf Fields
Synthetic or artificial turf is selectively being used to replace natural turf sport fields on high -use municipal and
institutional sites as a means of extending playability, and reducing field maintenance. Despite a higher introductory
cost, artificial turf fields tend to require less maintenance compared to natural grass fields although general
maintenance and upkeep is required to maintain a high quality playing experience. Artificial turf fields are found
throughout Durham Region in municipalities such as Clarington, Oshawa, Whitby and Pickering.
The facility model for developing artificial turf fields varies in each community and is typically dependent on the
size of the local market, availability of capital funding and resources (e.g., partnerships), and financial viability of the
business model as artificial fields are costly to develop compared to a traditional grass field. Built in 2014 at a cost
of approximately $1.5 million, the artificial turf field at South Courtice Community Park is independently owned,
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maintained and managed by the Municipality of Clarington. Other artificial field models found in Durham Region
and the rest of the GTA include joint -development and/or operations agreements between municipalities and
school boards; typically these agreements come to fruition when needs and expectations of each party are clearly
understood, and most importantly capital planning is aligned so that mutual projects — and their funding allocations
— coincide with each other.
There are no generally accepted service level standards for artificial turf fields, with fields available across
municipalities of widely varying populations. In assessing the need to provide artificial turf, municipalities employ a
business planning assessment based on a number of variables given the cost to construct artificial turf represents a
sizeable investment as demonstrated by the field in South Courtice. Considerations include the number of artificial
fields that exist in the community, utilization rates of the sports field system as a whole, receiving field time and/or
rental commitments from local sports field users, the availability and cost of parkland to accommodate overall sports
field needs, and, in some cases, the willingness of a third party to partner with the municipality.
The artificial turf field at South Courtice Community Park experienced a 15% increase in the number of hours booked
between 2018 and 2019 with a total of 330 hours reserved between the months of May and October. While the
positive year -over -year growth trend is encouraging, there is ample capacity to accommodate more usage
throughout the season based upon current bookings as Municipal data shows the utilization rate to be less than
40% (noting that this may reflect off-peak time slots such as during weekday daytime hours, meaning prime time
usage rates could be higher). Based upon data available, it would be difficult to rationalize investment in a second
artificial field unless it was done so in partnership with a third party — such as a local school board — to share in the
capital and/or operating cost.
Analysis — Soccer
Ontario Soccer's Long Term Player Development model (LTPD) aims to bolster grassroots soccer programming by
focusing upon improved coaching, fewer games, more ball time, and skill development as opposed to the historical
emphasis on scoring and winning games. LTPD tailors field dimensions specifically to the age and ability of players,
recognizing the various stages of physical and cognitive development. Under the LTPD scenario, there are six field
sizes oriented to 11 versus 11 (referred to as 11v11), 9v9, 7v7, 5v5 and 30 whose respective dimensions and age
divisions are articulated in Table 5.
Most of Clarington's rectangular fields were designed and constructed prior to the LTPD coming into effect, thus
not all fields meet LTPD specifications. Historically, most municipal field sizes were referred to as 'full/regulation',
'intermediate/junior', and 'mini/micro'. Under FIFA regulation standards, the full field is similar to the 1101
dimensions and this type of field can accommodate all the sizes of fields required under LTPD. Using existing line
markings with cones and portable nets, one 1101 field can accommodate eight 3v3 fields, five 5v5 fields
(additionally, two 5v5 fields can also be placed across the width of a 7v7 field), and one 7v7 field.
Table 5: Long Term Player Development Field Dimensions
Game Day
Squad Size
Parent &
Child
Max 6 Max 8 Max 10
Ideal 9 /
Max 12
Ideal 12 /
Max 16
25m to 0
306mo
Field Width
n/a
18m to 22m 25m to 30m
42m to 55m
metres
405mo
Field Length
n/a
25m to 30m 30m to 36m 30m to 36m
60m to 75m
Source: Ontario Soccer
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The Durham Region Soccer Association, which encompasses Clarington-based clubs sanctioned by Ontario Soccer,
has been experiencing a steady decline in registration rates over the past 10 years which mirrors provincial trends.
There were approximately 19,000 players registered in Durham Region as of 2018; the total number of players has
been in decline over the past decade and results in a lower capture rate when measured as a percentage of the
population. This suggests that interest in soccer in Durham Region may be levelling off or declining among residents.
Soccer participation may be impacted by competing sporting interests, and/or could also be a result of aging
populations in certain communities.
Continued demand for soccer fields is possible with Ontario Soccer's implementation of the LTPD standards and is
consistent with input provided by the Darlington Soccer Club who report challenges with finding fields that are
suitable for younger age groups. Darlington Soccer Club is the primary provider of minor soccer programs in
Clarington with a 2019 membership of 3,700 players; the relatively young median age in the Municipality could be
driving growth in some of the club's younger divisions. The Municipality is providing one soccer field per 69 minor
players, slightly higher than the target of one field per 80 players articulated in the 2005 Outdoor Recreation
Facilities Study (as the soccer field supply has increased by 6 fields since that time).
Figure 4: Provincial and Regional Participation in Outdoor Soccer
390,000
370,000
350,000
330,000
310,000
290,000
270,000
250,000
2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018
Source: Ontario Soccer
50,000
45,000
40,000
35,000
30,000
25,000
20,000
15,000
Projecting needs forward, future growth in the age 5 to 19 cohort could result in the Darlington Soccer Club's
membership growing to an estimated 4,900 players by the year 2031 assuming that the same percentage of children
and youth are involved in soccer. This level of registration, if attained, would require a total supply of 61 rectangular
fields under a 1:80 standard thereby necessitating 7 new soccer fields by 2031; if extending the forecast out to the
year 2036, it is possible that a further 5 fields would be needed to bring the supply to 66 fields.
In addition, it bears noting that the Municipality's Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategyz recommends
the expansion of the Bowmanville Indoor Soccer Facility. The Municipality is presently engaged in preliminary
planning for what is being referred to as the South Bowmanville Recreation Centre, with tentative schedules
projecting the first of two expansion phases to be completed by the year 2023. Depending upon the extent of the
expansion and associated site works (e.g. parking and exterior circulation), the Municipality would be required to
replace up to two full size fields and four mini fields in addition to the net new additions to the sports field supply
proposed above.
z Municipality of Clarington. 2017. Indoor Recreation Facilities Development Strategy. p.55.
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Based upon a review of utilization data, there appears to be capacity in the local rectangular field system as a whole
as only five field locations amassed more than 100 hours of rentals in 2019. Implementation should thus proceed
cautiously and consider factors such as enhancement and/or conversion of existing fields to better meet the needs
of the Darlington Soccer Club and adult leagues.
As a target moving towards the year 2031, the Municipality should add between 4 and 5 net new rectangular fields
to the supply while enhancing existing fields in a manner that increases playability in order to make efficient use of
existing available capacity. The strategy to address needs for rectangular fields is to add a minimum of 4.5 unlit
equivalents to the supply by lighting a minimum of three existing soccer fields (+1.5 unlit equivalents) and
constructing three new rectangular fields at future Neighbourhood Parks (+3 unlit equivalents).
The Municipality should also replace any field(s) lost through the aforementioned South Bowmanville Recreation
Centre project as well as engage the Darlington Soccer Club to determine improvements that could be carried out
to existing rectangular fields that optimizes these facilities to accommodate greater usage by the Club, particularly
among its younger age divisions. Finally, the Municipality should reconfirm needs for sports fields in 5 years to
determine whether the 5 fields projected under this iteration of the ORNA should be implemented or adjusted.
Analysis — Other Rectangular Field Sports
Other rectangular field sports such as football, rugby, field lacrosse and ultimate frisbee have varying field sizes.
Many of these sports can all be accommodated at the South Courtice Community Park artificial field. Notable sports
field dimensions include:
• Canadian football fields measure 137 metres by 59 metres (150 yards by 65 yards), including the end zones.
Smaller field sizes may be used for younger age groups and smaller squad sizes. For example, Football
Canada recommends a field size of 73 metres by 27 metres (80 yards by 30 yards) for 5v5 flag football.
• Rugby can be played on a regulation size football field, although larger fields may also be used up to 144
metres by 70 metres (157 yards by 77 yards).
• Ultimate Frisbee fields are generally measure 110 metres by 37 metres (120 yards by 40 yards), including
the end zones.
• The Canadian Lacrosse Association indicates that lacrosse fields shall be 110 metres by 60 metres (120 yards
by 65 yards) for men's and women's lacrosse. A shorter field may be used for youth lacrosse activities (e.g.,
100 metres or 110 yards).
Football has had cyclical popularity within the Province and is generally played at the minor level under the age of
20 (although football is a popular sport to follow among adults). Anecdotally, participation in the sport is steady or
has grown marginally across different communities; locally, Clarington Minor Football has approximately 100 players
registered in their programs. The sport is often challenged by having limited access to well -lit artificial turf fields (or
dedicated football fields), as football is an autumn sport and night falls earlier during this time of year. Due to the
lack of artificial turf fields in some communities, football games played on natural grass can result in field damage,
thus limiting field use by other sports.
In order to grow participation in the sport and reduce physical injuries, Football Canada has explored a number of
strategies such as adopting a Long Term Athlete Development (LTAD) model. Rather than focusing on playing
games, winning, and scoring, the LTAD model divides athlete development into nine stages of age -appropriate
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activities. Other strategies include banning two simultaneous football seasons in the same year, scheduling tackle
football games at least four days apart, introducing flag football, and establishing a football league for persons with
disabilities, as well as promoting and encouraging participation in girls' football.
Rugby has been experiencing a slight increase in popularity across Canada since the sport was introduced at the
2016 Summer Olympics and a focus by Rugby Canada to implement grassroots programs (Rookie Rugby). While it
is generally not considered to be a growth sport in most parts of Ontario, there are stable to growing participation
in communities where strong programs exist including in Durham Region. Rugby Canada reported that there are
approximately 30,000 registered youth and adult rugby players, 38% of whom reside in Ontario.I For both football
and rugby, positive participation rates may also be a result of extensive concussion research that has resulted in
identification and safety protocols, and supported by the provincial government's recent passing of Rowan's Law.
Ultimate Frisbee is a non -contact sport that emerged in the 1990s. While it continues to be a niche sport, it has
experienced surging popularity, particularly among young adults (including social clubs). As a result, the sport has
been recognized by international sporting organizations including the International World Games Association and
the International Olympic Committee. Ultimate Frisbee is currently being considered by the Olympic Committee to
be added to future Olympics Games.' The popularity of the sport is partly driven by the low cost to participate as
well as the sport attracting players from other field sports who bring transferable skills to the game.I
Lacrosse is considered to be one of North America's oldest sports and is primarily played by youth and young
adults. According to the Canadian Lacrosse Association, the most common types of lacrosse are: box lacrosse
(played indoors or outdoors on a hard surface), field lacrosse, and inter -lacrosse (an introductory -level non -contact
form of lacrosse that uses modified equipment). The Municipality provides a dedicated outdoor box lacrosse rink
as part of the Clarington Fields complex.
Action Plans
• Light a minimum of 3 existing soccer fields — contingent upon the suitability of the supply to accommodate
such an action — thereby adding the "capacity equivalent" of 1.5 new fields to the inventory; this will allow
the Municipality to open up time slots at existing unlit fields that in turn could be simultaneously
programmed as smaller fields to allow additional space dedicated to younger age divisions. Fields to be
considered include South Courtice Field #3, Courtice Memorial Park, Bowmanville High School and/or
others deemed appropriate.
• Construct a minimum of 3 new rectangular fields at future Neighbourhood Parks in addition to fields
required to replace those that may be removed from the Clarington Fields due to expansion of the
Bowmanville Indoor Soccer Facility (South Bowmanville Recreation Centre).
• Engage the Darlington Soccer Club to determine improvements that could be carried out to existing
rectangular fields that optimizes these facilities to accommodate greater usage by the Club, particularly
among its younger age divisions.
• Replace any field(s) that are removed from the Clarington Fields if proceeding with the expansion of the
Bowmanville Indoor Soccer Facility.
3 Rugby Canada. 2016. Annual Report
° Ultiworld. Ultimate's Olympic Hopes A Bit Brighter After Recent Announcements. 2017. Retrieved from https://ultiworld.com
5 Blasiak, Nick. Ultimate Frisbee teams find early success. The Brock Press. 2016. Retrieved from http://www.brockpress.com
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4.3 Ball Diamonds
There are a total of 30 ball diamonds in Clarington consisting of 6 hardball diamonds and 24 softball diamonds. Of
these, there are a total of 10 lit diamonds including four Championship diamonds at Clarington Fields; lit diamonds
typically allow the potential for 50% additional hours to be played relative to unlit facilities. In addition, over 335
hours were rented at 7 school diamonds and are thus reflected in the supply.
Accordingly, the Municipality's supply is considered to be 42 unlit equivalent diamonds as shown in Table 6 while
the geographic distribution of diamonds is shown in Figure 5.
Table 6: Ball Diamond Inventory by Settlement, 2019
Community
Hardball Diamonds
Lit
4(6.0)
Unlit
2
Total
8
Per Capita
12,792
Bowmanville
3 (4.5)
1
5.5
8,206
Courtice
-
1
1
27,898
Newcastle
-
-
0
0
Orono
-
-
Rural
1 (1.5)
-
1.5
11,268
Softball Diamonds
6(9.0)
18
27
3,790
Bowmanville
5 (7.5)
8
15.5
2,912
Courtice
-
4
4
6,975
Newcastle
-
1
1
12,403
Orono
1 (1.5)
-
1.5
Rural
-
5
5
2,600
Scrub Diamonds
-
3
3
n/a
Rural
-
3
3
Municipality Diamonds
35*
Permitted School Diamonds
7
7
* stated total excludes the "scrub diamonds" at Kendal Park, Solina Park and Tyrone Park
In addition to the above noted diamonds, the Municipality has tentatively identified three new ball diamonds to be
constructed as part of Neighbourhood Park developments planned to occur by the year 2025 (and have identified
funding through the 10-year development charge forecast).
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Figure 5: Distribution of Ball Diamonds
3.
o
�
a
_ m
o
22. 4F
Ganaraska
Road
19.
l GREENBELT
10. a
8.
I
Taunton Road
I
1 Argent Park
2 Bowmanville Memorial Park
Burketon Park
4 Clarington Fields Park
Clarin
�
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d 14.
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5 Courtice West Park
6 Edward Park
9.
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o
06 Str
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12. `0
17 rn
7 Elephant Hill Park
8 Harvey Jackson Park
9 Highland Park
10 Kendal Park
11 Longworth Park
12 Lord Elgin
18.
0
16. L
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13.'-` iJ ��N`9 way
.✓ 2. 20,
4. , � 6.�1
Regional Highway 2
13 Optimist Park
14 Orono Park
15 Penfound Park
16 Rhonda Park
17 Rickard Recreation Park
18 Roswell Park
19 Solina Park
20 Soper Creek Park
21 Stuart Park
0 Lit and
Unlit Ball Diamonds
with a 1.5km Service Area
22 Tyrone Park
�U Championship Ball Diamonds with a 2.0km Service Area
Kilom
0
etres AtiYf'W
2
4 8
M.M.ith�n
Public Input
Sports field users participating in ORNA focus groups emphasized that fields need to be designed in a manner that
facilitates the desired level of play, minimizes field closures due weather and drainage -related issues, and are
supported by required amenities namely washrooms and vehicular parking. Ball groups reported that lack of
diamonds is constraining their ability to grow their programs and have resulted in waiting lists, particularly at the
adult and competitive levels. Similar comments were received at the ORNA Launch Event regarding insufficient
access to quality diamonds in Clarington.
Hardball diamonds and softball were used by 44% and 28% of ORNA survey respondents, respectively ranking as
the fourth and fifth most used outdoor recreation facilities. Hardball diamonds received the second highest priority
rating for additional investment with more than one -in -three respondents (34%) while investments in softball
diamonds were prioritized by 19% of the survey sample.
Outdoor Recreation Needs Assessment I May 2020 Page 25
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Analysis
After being considered a sport in decline for a better part of the past two decades, baseball and its variations
(including softball, fastball, etc.) are experiencing a resurgence. At the provincial level, Baseball Ontario reported
that there were over 15,000 competitive participants in 2018, which was a growth of 36% compared to 2007.6 During
this time, regional registration in the Eastern Ontario Baseball Association experienced a surge in participation,
increasing by 45% to more than 1,700 members (Figure 6). Registration reported by Baseball Ontario does not
include recreational/house leagues and non-affiliated ball groups and as a result, actual participation figures are
greater. Clarington-based ball organizations contributing to the ORNA reported a collective registration of
approximately 2,700 players; this registration is 30% higher than reported through Clarington's 2005 Outdoor
Recreation Facilities Study.
Figure 6: Provincial and Regional Participation in Rep Baseball
c
0
41
M
L
LA
N
tw
v
W
M
0
a
18,000
16,000
14,000
12,000
10,000
8,000
11I'
4,000
2,000
0
2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018
Source: Baseball Ontario
Table 7: Reported Registration among Participating Ball Organizations, 2019
Bowmanville Dodgers (OSBA)
RegistrationOrganization Reported
20
Clarington Baseball Association
883
Clarington Cubs
20
Clarington Girls Slo-Pitch Association
225
Clarington Ladies Slo-Pitch
240
Clarington Renegades
50
2,400
2,200 0
L
2,000
tw
av
W
1,800 E
M
L
1,600 0
1,400
1,200
1,000
Country Men's Lob -Ball (Solina)
RegistrationOrganization Reported
120
Durham East Softball Association
211*
Friday Night Church League
80*
Newcastle Slo-Pitch
600
North Durham Ladies Lob -Ball
160*
Oldtimers Service Club League
120
Total
2,729
Source: User Groups attending the October 16 focus groups with exception of registrations marked with an asterisk (*) whose
registration has been estimated for the purposes of the ORNA. Note that registrations have not been verified and certain groups
include non-resident players.
6 Baseball Ontario. Annual General Meeting Reports.
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Page 26
The renewed interest in ball diamond sports is driven by a number of factors such as a greater focus on skill
development and grassroots programs to engage children and youth at a young age to participate in the sport. The
popularity of the Toronto Blue Jays is also a contributing factor. Since Baseball Canada adopted the Long Term
Player Development (LTPD) model, organizations have focused on developing and honing skills and coaching styles,
while fostering leadership. Suitable competition formats and facility types are also core components of the LTPD
model, which has implications on ball diamond types and sizes that are required.
Clarington's ball groups indicated that the overall number of diamonds in the Municipality appears to be sufficient,
however, there are certain sizes and configurations that are in short supply. This observation is understandable
based on field inventories conducted for the ORNA that reveal a number of diamonds in the supply that are
undersized, have overlapping outfields with other fields, or offer lower order amenities. With user group
registrations estimated in the range of 2,700 players, the Municipality is providing one ball diamond per 65 players
which is significantly greater than the rate of 1 diamond per 100 players targeted in the 2005 Outdoor Recreation
Facilities Study; this finding would reinforce the ball organizations perceptions of a high service level.
Assuming capture rates remain constant and targeting a service level of one diamond per 100 registered players,
the Municipality's supply would meet needs to the end of the ORNA planning period in terms of overall quantity.
When isolating hardball users, however, the pressures currently being placed on the eight existing hardball
diamonds is better understood from the user group perspective. Collectively, the Bowmanville Dodgers, Clarington
Cubs, Clarington Renegades and the Clarington Baseball Association (CBA) serve 973 players and account for over
35% of estimated ball user group registrations.
Although it is recognized that not all CBA programs require hardball diamonds with mounds (e.g. particularly in its
younger house league divisions), it is plausible that hardball organizations need between 8 and 10 hardball
diamonds at present time and could require up to 11.5 unlit equivalent diamonds by the year 2031. The strategy to
address needs for hardball diamonds is to add 4.0 unlit equivalents to the supply would be to light two existing
hardball diamonds (+ 1.0 unlit equivalents) and construct two new lit hardball diamonds (+3.0 unlit equivalents).
It also bears noting that with approximately 1,750 softball players participating in the Municipality, organizations
would require access to 18 diamonds. Although there are 27 municipal softball diamonds, softball groups have
emphasized that design and/or maintenance quality is not conducive to their needs. While the ORNA scope centres
upon new capital needs, future works undertaken by the Municipality should consider ways to improve the existing
supply of softball and hardball diamonds (through irrigation, drainage, field lighting, conversions, additions, etc.).
Action Plans
• Light and carry out other required upgrades to hardball diamonds at Penfound Park and Longworth Park —
contingent upon the suitability of these diamonds to accommodate such an action — thereby adding the
"capacity equivalent" of 1.0 new diamonds to the inventory and allowing the Municipality to open up time
slots at existing unlit diamonds. In the event that one or both of these diamonds cannot be lit, explore the
ability to convert an existing underutilized softball diamond to a hardball diamond.
• Construct 2 lit hardball diamonds at the Newcastle Community Park.
• Construct a minimum of 3 ball diamonds at Neighbourhood Parks (designs to consider input from local
diamond users), some of which may replace existing diamonds that are either underutilized or unplayable.
• Adjust the softball and/or hardball diamond supply as necessary after reconfirming needs for sports fields
beyond the year 2031.
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4.4 Cricket Grounds
The Municipality of Clarington does not own or maintain cricket pitches at this time.
Public Input
Consultations did not reveal a strong demand for cricket with no in -person feedback contributed and the ORNA
survey recording 1 % support for investments in cricket pitches.
Analysis
The popularity of cricket is growing in Canada, particularly within urban municipalities where diverse cultural
demographics and growing populations of newcomers arriving from countries where the sport is extremely popular
such as South Asia, the Caribbean, and parts of Europe. Cricket Canada estimates that there are approximately
130,000 cricket players across the country.' The sport may have longer -term potential for gaining increased traction
in Clarington as the cultural mix is gradually diversifying, particularly with growth spreading eastwards throughout
the GTA. That being said, the only south Durham municipalities that presently provide cricket pitches are Ajax and
Pickering who each operate one.
Cricket play requires a large circular field that encompasses an area similar to two soccer fields, resulting in unique
design specifications that can sometimes be challenging to accommodate. Some municipalities have developed
cricket pitches across multiple sports fields or in sub -optimal remnant spaces, while others have provided dedicated
cricket pitches. Certain municipalities — primarily larger, culturally -diverse, GTA-based communities — have adopted
a target of one cricket pitch per 100,000 residents. Clarington has reached this population threshold albeit with
lower levels of ethno-cultural diversity relative to a number of other GTA counterparts at present time.
With little demand expressed through the ORNA consultations along with the fact that other south -Durham Region
municipalities are addressing needs (participation often transcends municipal borders due the sports social and
cultural nature), the Municipality does not require a cricket pitch in the short to medium term.
Action Plans
• Monitor levels of demand for cricket pitches for the time being until demand can be quantified to a point
that would require provision of such facilities. Prior to building dedicated cricket grounds, a future cricket
pitch should take the form of an overlay with a soccer field to maximize flexibility and test demand.
Cricket Canada. Retrieved from https://cricketcanada.orq
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5. Sport Court Assessments
5.1 Summary of Sports Courts
Table 8 summarizes outdoor sport courts owned by the Municipality of Clarington.
Table 8: Outdoor Sport Court Inventory
Tennis Courts
13
Lit: Lions Parkette/Clarington Beech Centre (2)
Tennis Courts — Lit
2
Unlit: Avondale Park (2), Green Park (2), Guildwood Park (2), Orono
Tennis Courts — Unlit
11
Park (1), Solina Park (2), Stuart Park (2)
Notes: not all courts had nets and posts installed at time of site visits.
Supply excludes former Lord Elgin Park courts that are now an
unmarked fenced asphalt pad as well as one court at Orono Park that is
planned for conversion to pickleball courts.
Pickleball Courts
3
Orono Park (planned for development in 2020)
Basketball Courts
22
Full Courts: Green Park, Guildwood Park, Lord Elgin Park, Optimist
Full Courts
11
Park, Pearce Farm Park, Roswell Park, Soper Creek Park, South Courtice
Half Courts
11
Community Park, Stuart Park, Tyrone Park, Walbridge Park
Half Courts: Barlow Court Parkette, Bons Park, Brookhouse Parkette,
Foxhunt Parkette, Gatehouse Parkette, Glenabbey Parkette, Harvey
Jones Park, Highland Park, Moyse Park, Northglen Park, Solina Park
Solina Park Multi -Use Tennis/Basketball Court
Green Park Tennis Court
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5.2 Tennis Courts
The Municipality maintains a total of 13 tennis courts throughout its parks system, two of which are lit courts that
are leased to the Bowmanville Tennis Club at the Beech Centre. Tennis court inventory and distribution is illustrated
in Table 9 and Figure 7. The existing surfacing of courts varies between standard asphalt, asphalt with acrylic
surfacing, and one court that uses an interlocking plastic tile system.
At the time of ORNA site visits, both tennis courts at Stuart Park did not have posts or nets but have been included
in the supply given that the courts are still lined for tennis. However, a former tennis court located at Lord Elgin Park
is excluded from the supply as it is no longer lined and its nets/posts have been removed.
Table 9: Tennis Court Inventory by Settlement, 2019
Community
Tennis Courts
Lit
2
Unlit
11
Total
13
Per Capita
7,872
Bowmanville
2
4
6
7,523
Courtice
-
4
4
6,975
Newcastle
-
-
-
0
Orono
-
1 *
1
Rural
2
2
5,634
* Supply reflects an active construction tender that will result in removal of one existing tennis court at Orono
Park (for a planned conversion to pickleball).
Note: supply excludes former courts at Lord Elgin Park and Newcastle Public School (owned by Kawartha Pine
Ridge School Board) where posts and nets have been removed.
Public Input
Low to moderate demand was expressed for tennis courts during ORNA consultations. Members of the public that
attended the Launch Event expressed a concern that there may not be enough tennis courts in Clarington and that
they were not aware of the location(s) of the Municipality's tennis courts. Some also expressed a concern about nets
and posts that have been removed from tennis courts.
Tennis courts were used by 15% of people filling out the ORNA survey, ranking near the bottom of the top ten
outdoor recreation facilities used; in total, 7% of the sample selected additional investments in tennis courts as one
of their highest priorities.
Analysis
Tennis has experienced a resurgence in recent years; Tennis Canada found that over 6.5 million Canadians played
tennis at least once in 2016, which was a growth of more than 32% since 2012. Tennis Canada reported that in 2016,
nearly 161,000 children under the age of 12 were considered a frequent tennis player, which was an increase of 10%
compared to 2015. That study also quantified the growing popularity of tennis with 51% of Canadians indicating
that they are somewhat or very interested in the sport, which was an increase from 38% in 2012.1
a Tennis Canada. 2014 and 2016 Tennis Canada Annual Reports.
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Figure 7: Distribution of Tennis Courts
� Kilometres At 44
The popularity of tennis at the national and provincial levels can be partly attributed to the growing segment of
baby boomers that seek social, and to some degree, lower impact activities. Governing bodies and community
tennis clubs are also promoting the sport at the grassroots level. Part of this growth can also be linked to the success
of Canadian tennis professionals such as Bianca Andrescu, Dennis Shapalov, and Milos Raonic.
Based on data, trends and consultations for Clarington's 2005 Outdoor Recreation Facilities Study, it had been
recommended that 7 to 8 new tennis courts would be required, however, the Municipality's supply has gone the
other way and has been reduced by 5 courts due to the loss of courts in Newcastle, Bowmanville and the upcoming
removal of one court in Orono.' Whereas the Municipality's level of service was 1:4,400 residents in the year 2005,
the reduction in courts has now reduced the service level to 1:7,900 which falls well below Clarington's target of one
9 The Municipality of Clarington issued a Request For Proposal in December 2019 seeking bidders to refurbish the Orono Park tennis courts prior
to June 2020; contained within the RFP is a provision to remove and replace one tennis court with three pickleball courts (thereby leaving one
tennis court to remain). The procurement process is active as of time of writing.
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tennis court per 5,000 residents established in the previous Outdoor Recreation Facilities Study. Many GTA
municipalities continue to target their tennis court supply to be in the range of one per 4,000 to 6,000 residents.
From both a population service level and geographic distribution perspective, Clarington is presently underserviced
with a notable gap in Newcastle where there are currently no tennis courts available. To meet a service target of
one court per 5,000 population, the Municipality would not only have to make up for the removal of five courts but
also construct an additional two courts to ultimately reach a total supply of 20 tennis courts.
It is recommended that the Municipality increase its tennis court supply to 20 tennis courts over the next 10 years
and re -assess its provision level targets at that time in consideration of geographic distribution, population growth,
and tennis participation trends particularly in light of Municipality's proactive efforts to increase its outdoor
pickleball court supply. Opportunities to add 7 new courts include through the development of the Newcastle
Community Park (three courts) along with future Neighbourhood and/or Community Parks in north Bowmanville
(two courts) and lands presently being assessed for the Southeast Courtice Secondary Plan (two courts). The
Municipality is encouraged to consider a multi -use court overlay combining tennis and pickleball lining to maximize
flexibility, particularly for those courts to be located in future Neighbourhood Parks.
With respect to tennis club courts, a standard used specifically for club -based needs is to target one club -based
tennis court per 75 to 100 tennis club members; the Bowmanville Tennis Club reports a 2019 membership of 110
players, 70 of whom are reported as "very active" adults. On this basis the number of tennis courts dedicated to
organized play appears to be sufficient. Tennis clubs often consider access to a minimum of three onsite as optimal
in order to facilitate programs (lessons, round -robins, etc.), tournaments and other club -sanctioned events. In the
case of the Bowmanville Tennis Club, the Beech Centre site has space limitations that would preclude its ability to
accommodate additional club courts.
Action Plans
• Re -install posts and nets at the Stuart Park tennis courts in Courtice, carried out in conjunction with a multi-
use court overlay as discussed in the ORNA's pickleball court Action Plans.
Construct three tennis courts at the Newcastle Community Park, intended for public play but designed to
the Municipality's club -court specifications in the event that demand for club -based tennis programs
emerges in the future.
• Construct two tennis courts in north Bowmanville and two courts at a park to be located in the Southeast
Courtice Secondary Plan, potentially designed with lining for both tennis and pickleball.
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5.3 Pickleball Courts
There are presently no pickleball courts that are owned or maintained by the Municipality of Clarington. As will be
discussed in subsequent pages, the Municipality has issued a Request For Proposal (in December 2019) to construct
three dedicated pickleball courts at Orono Park.
Public Input
The need for pickleball courts emerged as a prevalent theme during the ORNA Launch Event and focus groups.
Local residents and informal pickleball associations are seeking dedicated pickleball courts but are also open to
multi -use templates shared with tennis or other hard surface court activities. They note that participation rates have
been steadily increasing, stemming from indoor programs and leading to demands for outdoor play in the summer.
The ORNA survey recorded 4% usage of pickleball courts during the past year among respondents, and a priority
rating of 5%; this amounts to 16 individuals that have used a pickleball court and choosing pickleball courts as their
preference for additional investments.
Analysis
The Municipality of Clarington offers pickleball within its gymnasiums and larger halls which has proven to be a
strong testing grounds for the sport. Demand for outdoor pickleball courts is emerging as a result of players wanting
to play outdoors in the warmer months but also as a result of many children's and youth day camps/summer
programs making use of gymnasiums. Older adults that are not interested in the fast -paced movement of tennis
are still able to hit the courts to play pickleball, which is a lower -intensity sport that can be played on a modified
tennis court. There is evidence that baby boomers are creating a boost in pickleball as participation trends suggests
that older adults have a greater desire to remain physically active in their retirement years. This segment has driven
pickleball to become one of the fastest growing sports in Canada and its popularity continues to spread across the
Province. The prominence of pickleball is further bolstered for being played at the Ontario Senior Games.
Pickleball courts are frequently overlaid with outdoor
tennis courts as municipalities test interest in the sport
among casual and organized players. Co -sharing courts
may serve as a neighbourhood level solutions, however,
dedicated courts over and above those planned in Orono
may be warranted over the long-term if there is sustained
demand for outdoor pickleball. Dedicated pickleball courts
may also be suitable at larger, destination -style parks that
have a broad community or city-wide catchment area,
particularly users looking for club play.
Regulation pickleball courts measure 44 feet by 20 feet (13
metres by 6 metres) — under these dimensions, a typical
tennis court can accommodate four pickleball courts if
Lined Tennis and Pickleball Court
Photo Credit: All Lined Up
using portable nets, though one pickleball court can be
lined within a tennis court if using the tennis net (a system, sometimes employing a strap and hook, needs to be in
place to pull the sides and centre of the net down to 36 and 34 inches, respectively). Standards developed and used
Outdoor Recreation Needs Assessment I May 2020 Page 33
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by the USA Pickleball Association, as illustrated through Figure 8, offer a number of combinations for shared -use or
permanent pickleball courts in the space of existing tennis courts.10
It is recommended that the Municipality construct pickleball courts in each of the three major settlements,
potentially at Lord Elgin Park in Bowmanville, Newcastle Community Park, and installing overlay lining at the tennis
courts at Stuart Park in Courtice (in conjunction with re -installing posts and nets). Of note, the Municipality's
Operations Department has budgeted $50,000 for pickleball retrofits in 2020 and has already issued a seperate
Request For Proposal to refurbish the tennis courts at Orono Park as previously noted; that RFP includes directions
to construct three new pickleball courts which will also result in the Orono settlement area being serviced.
Action Plans
• Redevelop the fenced asphalt pad at Lord Elgin Park in Bowmanville to a dedicated outdoor pickleball
complex, provided that parking requirements of potential users can be addressed without unduly impacting
adjacent land uses. Presently undeveloped land at the Clarington Sports Fields is an alternative given the
availability of parking and washroom facilities onsite.
• Construct pickleball courts as part of a future development phase of the Newcastle Community Park.
• In conjunction with the recommendation to reinstall posts and nets at the Stuart Park tennis courts in
Courtice, overlay pickleball lines on the courts to create a multi -use court that allows both sports to be
played.
Lord Elgin Park asphalt pad (Bowmanville)
Beech Centre tennis courts (Bowmanville Tennis Club)
10 Johnson, David. Revitalizing Underutilized Courts with Pickleball. USA Pickleball Association. http://www.usapg.org
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Figure 8: USA Pickleball Association, Temporary Court Layouts (can also be used for Shared Use)
One Pickleball Court per Tennis Court: The simplest way is to just lower the tennis net to 34"
in the center. Lines may be taped or painted on the court for pickleball (always check with
facility first). Then the court can be used for both tennis and
pickleball very easily. The pickleball lines are blue in the
adjacent diagram. Because of the size of the court surface, one
might want to have some sort of temporary barrier for the balls
so that they don't have to be chased the full length of the court.
Two Pickleball Courts per Tennis Court: The diagram on the
right shows 2 pickleball courts laid out on a tennis court. A
standard tennis court pad is 60'xl20'. The minimum
recommended size for a pickleball court is 30'x60'. That is
exactly one fourth the size of a standard tennis court pad.
Therefore, it is possible to put 4 pickleball courts in the space
of a tennis court except for the possible existence of angled
corners that are on some tennis courts. If the corners are
angled, then two courts can fit very nicely as shown. If the conversion is temporary or it is
desired to be able to continue to use the court for tennis, then USAPA Portable Net Stands
can be used for the pickleball courts and the tennis net can be left in place as a backstop
for the two pickleball courts.
6'-6
some sort of temporary barrier.
I
e
T
1
T
Four Pickleball Courts per Tennis Court: The diagram on the left shows four pickleball
courts on a tennis court. Note how the position of the pickleball courts has been shifted
by two feet to allow for the angled corners of the tennis court. That leaves only 6 feet
between the pickleball baseline and the tennis net. That is a little tight, but works in a
pinch. The compromise is especially acceptable if the tennis court is being used
temporarily while permanent pickleball courts add le,.
are being built. If the tennis court does note exA+ re
have angled corners, then move the courts 2 `
feet so that there is an 8-foot distance between
the pickleball baseline and the backstops.
Note how the lines are made to coincide as --------- . ---------
much as possible with the tennis court lines in
order to minimize line confusion for the
players. Note also that this layout does not IT`]] T'i
allow room for fences between the side -by -side
courts. To serve as a backstop for the balls, the
tennis net should be extended with netting or mi F —�� m
Permanent Conversion of Tennis Courts: The diagram to the right shows 2 tennis
courts that are converted to 8 pickleball courts. If a single tennis court is
converted, just refer to half of the diagram. Angled corners are squared off if
necessary. If the tennis court is a standard dimension of 60'xl 20', that only allows
5 feet between the pickleball sidelines and the fences. That should be considered
the minimum dimension. If space and budget allow, add some additional overall
width. That will give the more active players more room and also give room for
seating on the courts.
Source: USA Pickleball Association, Revitalizing Underutilized Courts with Pickleball
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5.4 Basketball Courts
There are 22 public outdoor basketball courts as shown in Table 10 and Figure 9, consisting of 11 full courts and 11
half courts. The size and surfacing of courts varies by park; for example, the Municipality currently uses standard
asphalt, asphalt with acrylic surfacing, and one court that uses an interlocking plastic tile system.
Table 10: Basketball Court Inventory by Settlement, 2019
Community
Basketball Courts
Full Court
11
Half Court
11
Total
22
Per Capita
4,652
Bowmanville
5
4
9
5,015
Courtice
3
5
8
3,487
Newcastle
2
1
3
4,134
Orono
-
-
-
Rural
1
1
2
8,451
Public Input
Little input was received through the ORNA Launch Event regarding basketball courts although conversations with
selected youth using courts at the time of field work indicated that there is a general satisfaction with the number
and design in Bowmanville and Courtice. More than one in four ORNA survey respondents (26%) participated in
basketball while more than one out of ten (11%) prioritized spending on basketball courts.
Analysis
Basketball courts can vary from rudimentary surfaces (e.g., asphalt and concrete) and sizes to high quality sports
surfaces (e.g., rubber) with removable equipment such as net posts, boards, and hoops. Their design characteristics
also lend themselves to multiple uses thus courts can be provided in a variety of shapes and sizes given that these
facilities tend not to be programmed and primarily focus on facilitating spontaneous opportunities for active play
ranging from basketball, ball hockey or other activities; some municipalities design courts large enough to be
flooded in the winter to provide an outdoor ice pad.
Durham Region has helped to produce national and international calibre basketball players. The local popularity of
basketball is fueled by factors such as its affordability and access to free outdoor courts, strong interest among
youth and immigrant populations from basketball -playing countries, an energized Toronto Raptors fan base
stemming from the team's NBA Championship victory in 2019., and a strengthened national program as evidenced
by growing numbers of Canadians playing in the NBA and WNBA. Although the Municipality does not directly
program its courts, basketball programs are offered within its gymnasiums.
Basketball courts are best provided on the basis of distribution and in consideration of youth populations, given
persons between the ages of 10 and 19 tend to be the primary users of outdoor courts and this age segment relies
heavily on walking/cycling for travel. With approximately 12,000 youth between 10 and 19 years of age in the
Municipality, the service level amounts to one basketball court per 545 youth; whereas in the year 2031 the service
level would be one court per 700 youth assuming no net changes to the supply (age cohort forecasts beyond 2031
are not available) which is in line with targets used across the GTA. However, there are two notable gaps in
geographic distribution where future residential growth is planned, one being in north-east Bowmanville and the
other in south-east Courtice; basketball courts should be provided in these areas. A third gap is in Orono and could
be addressed by providing a court at Orono Park.
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Figure 9: Distribution of Basketball Courts
Park Name
Action Plans
• Construct basketball courts in north Bowmanville (east of Liberty Street), the South -East Courtice Secondary
Plan, and Orono, all of which would preferably employ a multi -use design template.
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6. Other Recreation Facility Assessments
6.1 Summary of Other Recreation Facilities
Table 11 summarizes outdoor recreation facilities owned by the Municipality of Clarington that fall under the scope
of the ORNA.
Table 11: Outdoor Recreation Facility Inventory
Facility •-
Supply
Location
Trails
21 km*
Bowmanville Valley Trail, Clarington (Great Lakes) Waterfront
Trail, Courtice Millennium Trail, Farewell Creek Trail, Newcastle
Lions Trail, Oak Ridges Moraine Trail, Sidney Rutherford Trail,
Soper Creek Trail
* stated length is derived from the Municipality of Clarington trails
webpage and is associated solely with portions of trails
owned/managed by, and physically located in the Municipality of
Clarington. The privately managed Oak Ridges Moraine Trail is in
addition to this stated network.
Skateboard Parks
4
Courtice Community Complex, Darlington Sports Centre, Rickard
Recreation Complex, Orono Park
Splash Pads
16
Community Splash Pad: Port Darlington East Beach
Community Splash Pads
1
Neighbourhood Splash Pad: Avondale Park, Baxter Park, Bons
Neighbourhood Splash Pads
15
Park, Bowmanville Memorial Park, Guildwood Park, Harry Gray
Park, Harvey Jones Park, Longworth Park, Northglen Park, Orono
Park, Pearce Farm Park, Rickard Neighbourhood Park, Roswell
Park, Walbridge Park, West Side Drive Park
Off -Leash Parks
3
Bowmanville Leash -Free Park (Bowmanville Harbour Conservation
Area), Courtice Leash -Free Park (South Courtice Community Park),
Newcastle Leash -Free Park (Diane Hamre Recreation Complex)
Community Gardens
2
Liberty Allotment Garden (Bowmanville), Bowmanville Allotment
Garden
Bocce Courts & Lawn
0
--
Bowling Greens
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6.2 Recreational Trails
There are a number of trails located within Clarington, some of which that are under the ownership and management
of the Municipality and others that are held in public trust, owned by other public or institutional agencies, and
certain trails located on privately owned properties. The majority of Municipally -owned trails are located in creek
valleys and along the Lake Ontario waterfront while non -municipal trails are predominantly situated within local
conservation areas, Regional forests and Crown lands. The trails network is shown in Figure 10 and includes the
following:
Bowmanville 3 metre wide asphalt trail spanning 1.7 kilometres running north -south along the Bowmanville
Valley Trail Creek from a trailhead accessed from Roenigk Drive to Baseline Road. Connections to Rotary
Park, Spry Avenue and Nelson Street are provided. The Trail supports both recreational and
utilitarian travel.
Clarington Forms part of the Great Lakes Waterfront Trail that connects multiple municipalities along the
Waterfront Lake Ontario shoreline. The Clarington portion consists of both on -road and off -road sections
Trail connecting to Darlington Provincial Park in the west and extending eastwards past Darlington
Nuclear Generating Station, Port Darlington West and East Beaches, and ultimately through
the Port of Newcastle. The trail is a combination of asphalt paths and rural roads that supports
recreational and utilitarian travel, and is an important part of the regional tourism/active
transportation network.
Courtice 1.5 metre wide gravel trail spanning 1.5 km with access points to Trulls Road, Nash Road and
Millennium Highway 2 with connections to the Courtice Community Complex and Courtice High School.
Trail
Farewell Creek 3 metre wide trail from Tooley's Mill Park running south to the bridge crossing of the Farewell
Trail Creek. Phase 1 is 600 metres long. Phase 2 is scheduled for construction in 2020 and will
extend the trail an additional 1.2 km to Townline Road.
Greenbelt A signed on -road cycling route located in the northern areas of Clarington that connects
Route multiple municipalities and is an important part of the regional tourism/active transportation
network.
Newcastle 1.8 metre wide asphalt trail spanning 650 metres between Sunset Boulevard to the south
Lions Trail (beginning at Westview Park) to King Avenue West to the north; the trail also contains direct
connections to Hart Court and Edward Street West.
Oak Ridges A naturalized trail forming part of a large regional network within the Oak Ridges Moraine /
Moraine Trail Niagara Escarpment. The Clarington portion runs across the north of the Municipality, through
rural areas and the Ganaraska Forest.
Sidney 2 metre wide gravel trail in Orono spanning 400 metres (0.4km) in a naturalized area located
Rutherford west of the Main Street corridor generally between Centreview Street and Station Street. The
Trail trail is designed for casual recreational use.
Soper Creek 3 metre wide asphalt trail spanning 2.4 km, generally following the Soper Creek's western banks.
Trail Trail heads are provided at King Street and Simpson Avenue with connections to a number of
adjacent cul-de-sacs.
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Figure 10: Major Trail Networks in Clarington
Greenbelt Route Waterfront Trail
Newcastle Lions Trail
Other Trails
0
2
4
Kilometres
Monte9th!B�rown
The Municipality's trail system is complemented by a comprehensive sidewalk network within the settlements along
with a growing network of on -road and cycling paths through dedicated bike lanes and shared roadways marked
by signage; these elements collectively form part of Clarington's active transportation infrastructure. These are
located in both the urban settlements as well as in rural settlements (e.g. Orono) which are part of the Ontario
Greenbelt Route.
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Public Input
Community consultations strongly emphasized the value that residents place on trails located throughout
Clarington. Trails were reported as the most used outdoor recreation facility garnering responses from 61% of the
ORNA survey sample, who also ranked trails as their highest priority for future investments with 46% support.
Analysis
Walking and cycling trails for recreational and utilitarian use is commonly identified as one of the most desirable
features in a community, lending support to the Municipality's past and planned investments in the trails network.
A strong trails system provides countless social and environmental benefits through promotion of physical activity,
connecting people to nature, enabling unstructured and affordable recreation opportunities, and contributing to
the development of a sustainable transportation system. Research has also found that trails heighten community
vibrancy by encouraging compact development and more livable communities where people are more likely to
socialize and interact with each other. Through these benefits, Clarington's trails contribute to an improved quality
of life for its residents.
The key to the continued development of an effective and robust trail network will be to ensure that Clarington's
trail system is safe, accessible, and continues to conveniently link users with key destinations (e.g., the Municipality's
community centres and destination parks, main streets, provincial parks and conservation areas, etc.). With a diverse
range of municipal and non -municipal trail routes already in place for a variety of activities, Clarington and its
partners are in a position to build upon the existing network and to strengthen connections between trails through
a combination of developing on and off -road active transportation infrastructure.
Future emphasis should be placed on connecting settlement areas, as well as creating a north -south corridor(s) with
connections where possible to the Waterfront Trail, Greenbelt Route and the Oak Ridges Moraine Trail to encourage
active transportation and capitalize on regional tourism associated with the substantial users travelling on these
trails. This strategy is consistent with direction contained in the Municipality's Official Plan that encourages the
development of an integrated trails network, and should be considered as the Municipality proceeds with its Active
Transportation Master Plan that is planned in the year 2020.
Action Plans
• Improve connectivity between and within settlement areas, including north -south connections between the
Waterfront Trail, Greenbelt Route and the Oak Ridges Moraine Trail corridor to encourage active
transportation and tourism.
• Proceed with the Municipality's Active Transportation Master Plan planned for the year 2020 to formalize
the preferred network.
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6.3 Skateboard and BMX Parks
There are 4 skateboard/BMX parks distributed across Bowmanville, Courtice, Hampton and Orono. The skateboard
parks in Bowmanville and Courtice are concrete -formed facilities while the Hampton and Orono facilities consist of
modular components installed on concrete pads.
Table 12: Skateboard/BMX Park Inventory by Settlement, 2019
Community
Skateboard/BMX Parks
Total
4
Per Capita
25,585
Bowmanville
1
45,135
Courtice
1
27,898
Newcastle
-
0
Orono
1
8,451
Rural
1
Public Input
The ORNA survey and the Public Open House resulted in some feedback regarding skateboard parks and BMX
parks. 17% of the survey sample reported use of skateboarding or BMX facilities during the past twelve months
while 9% ranked these facilities as a priority for future investment (placing it within the top ten choices). Open House
discussions emphasized the importance of such facilities to serving local children and youth, and for them to be
located in a manner that younger residents can reach without relying on a car.
Garnet B. Rickard Recreation Complex skatepark
- man
Darlington Sports Centre skatepark (Hampton)
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Analysis
One of the key design principles of skateboard park developments is to create unique, fun and engaging skating
experiences. Large skateboard parks are generally designed to serve a broad community. Smaller skateboard parks
(or "skate spots") may have fewer, introductory -level components that draw from a smaller catchment area.
Clarington's skateboard parks contain a mix of permanent concrete and modular fixtures with differing design
specifications between them; each contains reinforced elements to allow use by skateboards, bikes and scooters.
Historically, skateboarding and other wheeled action sports such as in -line skating (sometimes referred to as roller
blading), scooters, and BMX bikes were commonly associated with negative behaviour. This perception has evolved
over time as these activities have become mainstream among youth and young adults. Prior to the existence of
skate parks and pump tracks, skateboarders and other action sport enthusiasts would use a variety of municipal and
private properties due to the lack of a better venue, resulting in excessive wear and damages as well as safety
concerns.
As youth -oriented facilities, geographic access to substantial youth populations is important. Many urban -rural
municipalities encompassing large territories such as Clarington typically target one skateboard park in each of their
urban settlements at a minimum. A more recent practice in urban and rural municipalities alike is to build skate
spots at the neighbourhood level as a cost-effective way of enhancing distribution. At present, Newcastle is the only
urban settlement without a skateboard park; with expansion of the Community Park slated for Diane Hamre
Recreation Complex, a skatepark should be integrated there given the availability of space, access to transit, and
direct supervision from facility staff onsite and the substantial public foot traffic in the park.
A number of municipalities have constructed "skate spots" within parks, occupying a small area that provides a hard
surface and a couple of basic skateboard elements (e.g. rail, curb, etc.). Skate spots are focused on beginner -level
users to hone their skills prior to transitioning to larger skateboard and BMX facilities. These amenities can increase
the geographic distribution in a highly cost-effective manner that reduces pressures to construct major skateboard
parks.
Action Plans
• Construct a skateboard/BMX park at the Newcastle Community Park, which would result in each major
settlement area in Clarington being serviced. Optimally, the future facility would be designed with the input
of local youth.
• Further enhance the geographic distribution of skateboarding opportunities through the creation of basic
"skate spots" where appropriate through future park design and redevelopment projects.
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6.4 Leash -Free Dog Parks
There are 3 leash -free dog parks located in each of the primary urban settlements. The leash -free parks are co -
located on community centre sites in Courtice and Newcastle while the Bowmanville leash -free dog park forms part
of the Port Darlington Beach/Harbour Conservation Area campus.
Table 13: Leash -Free Park Inventory by Settlement, 2019
Community
Leash -Free Dog Parks
Total
3
Per Capita
34,113
Bowmanville
1
45,135
Courtice
1
27,898
Newcastle
1
12,403
Orono/Rural
-
0
Public Input
Slightly less than a quarter of ORNA survey respondents (23%) reported visiting a leash -free park over the past
twelve months while 10% chose future investments in such facilities as a top priority. In addition, a modest number
of comments were received for leash -free parks through the Launch Event.
Analysis
A scan of GTA municipalities indicates that typically there are no measurable provision standards for the
development of leash -free zones in parks. Most municipalities provide them on a case -by -case basis, in partnership
with volunteer organizations. Business planning exercises often guide provision of leash -free zones, considering
broad factors including geographic distribution, resident requests, and the availability of suitable locations.
The Municipality of Clarington has been proactive in securing meaningfully sized dog parks in the urban settlements
of Bowmanville, Courtice and Newcastle. Observations from Municipality staff as well as dog owners engaged at the
time of site visits suggest that Clarington's Dog Parks are well used. As medium to higher density developments
continue to emerge in certain parts of Clarington's urban settlements - such as north Bowmanville - new residents
with small or no backyards may increasingly seek leash -free areas to exercise their pets. People also benefit greatly
from leash -free zones, as they are a place for individuals sharing similar interests to gather and often where
newcomers to a community can meet others (or where people who are otherwise living in isolation can meet others).
With pet ownership rates rising among the older adult population, Clarington's leash -free parks will continue to
play an important role for older adults to create or maintain interaction with others and minimize risk of social
isolation.
With more than 19,000 new residents expected to arrive in Bowmanville over the next ten years, many of whom will
be living in more compact residential developments, an additional off -leash park is recommended. The off -leash
park should be developed in north Bowmanville since the majority of future growth is planned in that area as well
as the ability to balance the geographic distribution with the existing Bowmanville leash -free park in the south.
Action Plans
• Construct an off -leash park in North Bowmanville in recognition of future growth, trends towards compact
forms of development, and to strengthen geographic distribution within that particular settlement area.
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6.5 Splash Pads
The Municipality operates a total of 16 splash pads within its parks system and is somewhat unique in the sense
that splash pads are provided on a neighbourhood basis (as opposed to district -wide or municipally -wide basis as
demonstrated in a number of other municipalities). With the exception of the Port Darlington East Beach splash pad
that has a Clarington-wide draw, the other splash pads largely service a neighbourhood -level catchment area.
Table 14: Splash Pad Inventory by Settlement, 2019
Community Neighbourhood
Community
Splash Pad Splash Pad
Total
Per Capita
Splash•..
Public Input
The ORNA survey sample ranked further investments in splash pads as the third highest priority at 29%; splash pads
were also the second -most visited outdoor recreation facilities with 54% of responding households reporting visiting
a splash pad in the past year. Feedback regarding splash pads was less prevalent during in -person consultations
held to date.
Port Darlington East Beach splash pad
Walbridge Park splash pad (Newcastle)
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Analysis
Splash pads are popular facilities and are a common feature in many parks, particularly those serving district and
community -level catchments. They provide a fun an interactive waterplay experience that has proven to be highly
popular among families with younger children. Splash pads have become an alternative to outdoor pools and
wading pools since they do not require staff to be present during operating hours, they usually only use water when
activated by buttons by users, and they are easier to maintain than deep -water pools; however, splash pads still
require investments of time and capital though the extent to which is dependent upon their size, design and type
of mechanical system. Splash pads can be designed thematically to reinforce a park's sense of place and
complement a broader park theme, but can also take the form of public art or fit within a civic plaza through fountain
features that still allow users to cool down in the summer.
The Municipality's approach is one that maximizes geographic distribution by constructing smaller scale waterplay
facilities in the range of 1,000 square feet although recently constructed splash pads at Pearce Farm Park and Port
Darlington Beach exceed 2,000 square feet; the latter is an exception to the Municipality's typical splash pad design
template where the larger facility design was employed to complement the regional catchment and tourism focus
of that waterfront park.
The neighbourhood -based provision strategy results in lower per unit capital costs of design and construction
relative to district or regionally -scaled design templates used in a number of communities. This lower capital cost
has allowed the Municipality to provide splash pads at an overall rate of one per 711 children between the ages of
0 and 9, considerably higher than the one per 3,000 children established as targets in many municipal parks and
recreation master plans. A caveat to the lower per -unit capital cost, however, is that the Municipality may be
incurring greater costs of installing water and electrical infrastructure into its neighbourhood parks relative to other
communities that provide fewer splash pads; in addition, regular maintenance and operations costs may also be
higher due to the number of sites in service.
Although the Municipality's splash pad implementation strategy is largely based on geographic distribution, to
assist in future capital planning the ORNA projects that there could be a need for 26 splash pads in total by the year
2031 should the service level remain at approximately one splash pad per 700 children. This would mean a total of
10 new splash pads being added to the supply, though it bears reinforcing that the number of splash pads would
be directly correlated to the number of future Neighbourhood Parks that will be acquired in the future.
Action Plans
• Continue to provide splash pads in new Neighbourhood Parks, where appropriate, recognizing this
approach may result in smaller facilities along with higher construction, maintenance and water costs when
compared to larger splash pads located in Community or Municipal level parks. As a general guide, the
Municipality should target provision of these facilities at a rate of one per 700 children under the age of 10
and servicing new residential areas and where other geographic gaps in distribution may exist.
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6.6 Community Gardens
There are presently two community allotment gardens in the Municipality. The Liberty Allotment Garden is located
behind the Tourism Clarington building on Liberty Street in Bowmanville and contains 46 plots. The Bowmanville
Allotment Gardens is located on Haines Street and contains 65 plots, though its current location is slated to be
redeveloped as a helipad for the Bowmanville Hospital (the Municipality's Operations Department has advanced a
plan to temporarily relocate these plots north of the current garden site, immediately south of the cemetery lands).
Public Input
The Bowmanville Allotment Gardens, Liberty Allotment Garden and a recently formed, independent organization
known as the Soper Creek Community Garden Committee have been active participants in the ORNA process. Their
input has centred upon the importance and benefits derived from community gardening, as well as to highlight a
need to replace the existing Bowmanville Allotment Gardens that will be removed for a helicopter pad. Collectively,
the allotment garden organizations have expressed a desire to expand the number of community allotment gardens
throughout the Municipality, including within existing and future parks, vacant lands and other properties where
opportunities may present themselves.
A total of 56 people completing the ORNA survey (15%) have made use of a community garden in the past twelve
months; 34 respondents (11%) rated future investments in community gardens as a top priority for outdoor
recreational infrastructure.
Analysis
Gardening is one of the most popular forms of leisure activity in Canada. In Clarington, both allotment gardens
report strong demand for rentable plots from an established base of gardeners and new members interested in
community gardening. Plot rentals have been near or at capacity for both the Bowmanville Allotment Gardens and
the Liberty Allotment Garden, the latter of whom report a waiting lists that range between 8 and 12 plots in a given
year.
Demand for allotment gardens is expected to increase as Clarington's population ages and residents of various
backgrounds seek more passive types of outdoor leisure activities. Demand may also increase — albeit at a marginal
level — as a result of higher density housing trends being developed in the primary urban settlement areas that are
resulting in smaller or no backyards in certain developments; in addition, certain condominium developments may
not permit gardens through their respective constitutions/by-laws.
Allotment gardens have been embraced by municipalities including Clarington to beautify their communities and
supplement a growing reliance on the public realm for personal use. These gardens encourage social interaction,
horticultural education and awareness of the benefits of healthy diets, while they can also enhance safety within
public spaces due to the presence of gardeners throughout the day.
Community gardens fit well with the Municipality's creative and cultural populations, objectives surrounding food
security, and aging population as older residents may be more inclined to participate in such activities. Support
from the Municipality does not necessarily need to be financial — Clarington staff with expertise in park design,
maintenance and horticulture could lend their insights to organizations or the Municipality could continue to
provide space within lands under its ownership (including parks) to establish new community gardens.
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With two established community partners specializing in urban agriculture and a third organization (Soper Creek
Community Garden Committee) emerging during the ORNA's preparation, the Municipality's role continues to be
one of support, if needed. The temporary relocation of 65 community garden plots on Haines Street requires a
permanent solution, and potentially at a larger size or across multiple locations based on current demand indicators.
The Bowmanville Allotment Gardens notes that a garden site measuring 25 feet by 100 feet would allow a number
plots to be established but in recognition of smaller parks being conveyed to municipalities, also feel that gardens
measuring 30 feet by 30 feet would also allow a critical mass to be formed and could be integrated into multiple
locations to meet needs as an alternative to a large site. Confirmation of the size of the site(s) will be required to
provide the required number of replacement and growth -related plots.
Action Plans
• Determine a suitable replacement site(s) to permanently accommodate plots displaced from the
Bowmanville Allotment Gardens on Haines Street.
6.7 Bocce Courts & Lawn Bowling Greens
The Municipality of Clarington does not have any bocce courts or lawn bowling greens.
Public Input
No requests for bocce or lawn bowling facilities were presented during ORNA consultations apart from one to two
people utilizing and prioritizing these facilities in the community survey (1%).
Analysis
Bocce and lawn bowling in Ontario have largely been provided to the general public through community based
clubs, some of which are located on municipal lands and using different operational models run by clubs, the
municipality, or a combination thereof. For example, the City of Oshawa and Town of Whitby both provide land for
lawn bowling greens though the facilities are maintained exclusively by the local lawn bowling clubs (Whitby also
owns and maintains two bocce courts at Cullen Park).
At the provincial and regional level, there is little evidence suggesting that lawn bowling or bocce will meaningfully
grow beyond their current participation rates as these sports have not been taken up by younger generations. In
the absence of demand indicators such as local participation rates, limited public requests, and other socio-cultural
factors, municipal entry into provision of these facilities is not warranted at this time. Only in the event that the
Municipality is presented with quantifiable demand and a meaningful partnership opportunity - where the
community will take an active role in delivering programs and providing general oversight and maintenance - should
Clarington consider developing/partnering on bocce or lawn bowling facilities.
Action Plans
• It is not recommended that the Municipality add bocce or lawn bowling facilities to its core service portfolio
nor should it construct any such facilities in the next 15 years unless increased demand is expressed, and a
business plan is prepared to determine feasibility and costs.
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7. Non -Capital Considerations
Through the ORNA process, a number of points emerged through discussions with the public and various
stakeholders that relate to operational and service delivery matters. Such comments were noted but residents and
stakeholder groups were informed that the ORNA focuses on capital infrastructure needs.
Although the ORNA's scope focuses on new capital infrastructure requirements needed over the next 15 years, the
following operational considerations are presented as information that may be considered through future studies,
initiatives and decisions carried out by the Municipality of Clarington. Please note that these should not necessarily
be construed as recommendations being set out through the ORNA but rather points for further consideration.
7.1 Facility Allocation, Scheduling & Pricing
A number of comments were received pertaining to facility scheduling and allocation practices, maintenance, rates
and fees, and other operational matters largely pertaining to sports fields (as most other outdoor facilities are not
rented for organized use). Matters pertaining to allocation and pricing are important to sports field users because
of the varying design specifications and maintenance assigned to certain sports field. For example, groups will likely
be looking for the fields that are of the size/dimensions that they need while also providing amenities they are
looking for (e.g. lighting, benches, etc.); groups perceive the value-added design and maintenance practices of a
field with its rental rate. The Municipality may consider formalizing design and maintenance standards for different
types of sports fields, possibly using a sports field classification system or hierarchy that defines the highest quality
fields from those intended for practices or neighbourhood -level play.
7.2 Data Collection & Performance Measurement
Effective planning and decision -making requires having the necessary information in hand. Through the ORNA
process, certain information used to understand the local market was easier to obtain than others. In particular, the
collection of registration information relied upon unverified data provided by user groups during the Focus Groups
as well as attempts to contact them by phone/email. A number of municipalities require user groups that wish to
regularly book facilities to provide their registrations annually so that municipalities can allocate these facilities
effectively and efficiently. Not only does having registration information aid in facility allocation, it inherently allows
a municipality to track sport -specific trends from year-to-year and in turn aid in future infrastructure planning based
on user group needs.
Other information that is useful for infrastructure planning pertains to the utilization of facilities. While the
Municipality can run reports pertaining to total hours booked and available at a given facility, more effort is needed
if it wishes to understand peak versus off-peak usage, or how usage differs by day of the week or any given month.
By tracking facility utilization in a more detailed way, municipalities can understand pressures being placed on
existing infrastructure, the degree to which new infrastructure could be used, as well as informing operational
matters relating to staffing, pricing, scheduling, and more.
With registration and utilization information, along with facility -specific financial metrics (e.g. revenues or cost
recovery rates, expenditures per acre or per facility type, etc.) and other considerations, the Municipality can put
itself in a position to improve its efficiency and effectiveness.
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7.3 Considering Strategic Partnerships
The Municipality's Community Services Department Strategic Plan is but one document that encourages
partnerships with other facility providers of sport and recreation." Partnerships can be beneficial in terms of
securing land, sharing capital and operating costs, and cost-effectively addressing gaps where facilities/programs
are required. The Municipality has a number of prospective partners such as the local conservation authorities for
trails, the local school boards for sports field or sport court developments, and local volunteers and businesses such
as BIAS, the Soper Creek Community Garden Committee and similar, sports associations, etc. Partnerships should
be evaluated based on a set of principles or as a part of a formalized framework in order to make decisions that
they are transparent, consistent, and reflective of the Municipal and Departmental values.
" Municipality of Clarington. 2008. Community Services Department Strategic Plan. p.28.
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8. Implementation Strategy
8.1 Implementing the ORNA
The ORNA spans a 15 year planning period during which a number of Action Plans are proposed for implementation;
these Action Plans are summarized in the pages that follow.
The substantial population growth forecasted in Clarington along with evolving participation preferences among
residents has the potential to alter future needs and demands for outdoor recreation facilities. For this reason, the
Municipality should update the ORNA in five years in order to reflect any changes to the supply, opportunities to
accommodate new infrastructure through parks that have been added in the various settlement areas, socio-
demographic characteristics in Clarington, and respond to trends in outdoor recreation activity.
Sports Field Implementation Strategy
Action Plan ..
E LSU
Construct 2 Hardball Diamonds at Newcastle Community Park
2025
•
030
2035
Construct 3 Rectangular Fields at Future Neighbourhood Parks
•
Construct 3 Softball Diamonds at Future Neighbourhood Parks
•
Replace fields removed due to the South Bowmanville Rec. Centre
•
Light South Courtice Rectangular Field #3
•
Construct a Rectangular Field at a Future Neighbourhood Park*
•
Construct a Ball Diamond at a Future Neighbourhood Park*
Light the Courtice Memorial Park Rectangular Field
•
Light the Bowmanville High School Rectangular Field
•
Light the Penfound Park Ball Diamond
•
Construct a Rectangular Field at a Future Neighbourhood Park*
•
Construct a Ball Diamond at a Future Neighbourhood Park*
•
Light the Longworth Park Ball Diamond
•
*Funding for these sports fields are accounted for in the Municipality's 10-year Development Charge Forecast —future analyses
should confirm the type and number of sports fields required based on market characteristics and capacity available at that time.
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Sport Court Implementation Strategy
Re -install posts and nets at the Stuart Park tennis courts in Courtice,
and add a multi -use court overlay that allows tennis and pickleball
•
Construct three tennis courts at the Newcastle Community Park
•
Construct three pickleball courts at the Newcastle Community Park.
•
Construct two tennis/pickleball multi -use courts in north Bowmanville
•
Construct two tennis/pickleball multi -use courts in the Southeast
Courtice Secondary Plan
•
Redevelop the asphalt pad at Lord Elgin Park in Bowmanville to an
outdoor pickleball complex (contingent upon site confirmation)
•
Construct one basketball court in north Bowmanville
•
Construct one basketball court in South -East Courtice Secondary Plan
•
Construct one basketball court in Orono
•
Other Recreation Facility Implementation Strategies
Proceed with the Municipality's Active Transportation Master Plan
Construct a skateboard/BMX park at the Newcastle Community Park
Provide a replacement site(s) to permanently accommodate
displacement of the Bowmanville Allotment Gardens.
Construct an off -leash park in North Bowmanville
•
Improve connectivity between and within settlement areas, including
north -south connections with regional trail networks
•
Integration of basic "skate spots" in parks, where appropriate
•
Integration of splash pads at future Neighbourhood Parks
•
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8.2 Estimated Capital Costs
Building upon assessments contained throughout the ORNA, the estimated capital costs of each initiative are
detailed as follows. Please note that these estimates reflect the base cost of construction (in 2020 dollars) and have
been provided by the Municipality of Clarington based upon information derived from Development Charge
forecasts and past tenders. Capital construction estimates assume ideal site development conditions and do not
include costs associated with land acquisition, site servicing, design or contingency allocations, escalations in
building or material costs, etc. All cost should be confirmed by the Municipality prior to integrating these
figures into future capital budgets and/or tenders.
A summary of costs estimated over the ORNA's 15 year planning horizon are as follows, and detailed in the charts
that immediately follow:
Rectangular Fields
$ 1,225,000
Ball Diamonds
$ 3,150,000
Tennis & Pickleball Courts
$ 625,000
Basketball Courts
$ 120,000
Other
$ 300,000
Total Capital Costs
$ 5,420,000
3 Rectangular Fields at Future Neighbourhood Parks
$600,000
Replace fields removed due to the South Bowmanville
Recreation Centre expansion
TBD after final
conce t design
Light South Courtice Rectangular Field #3
$75,000
1 Rectangular Field at a Future Neighbourhood Park
$200,000
Light the Courtice Memorial Park Rectangular Field
$75,000
Light the Bowmanville High School Rectangular Field
$75,000
1 Rectangular Field at a Future Neighbourhood Park
$200,000
=0
Qii;I
Note: Assumed capital costs are stated in 2020 dollars as follows: 1200.000 Der unlit rectangular field (scaled to Neiahbourhood
Park standards); $75,000 to install lighting on an existing rectangular field
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Diamondsall
2 Hardball Diamonds at Newcastle Community Park
$1,500,000
3 Softball Diamonds at Future Neighbourhood Parks
$900,000
1 Ball Diamond at a Future Neighbourhood Park
$300,000
Light the Penfound Park Ball Diamond
$75,000
1 Ball Diamond at a Future Neighbourhood Park
$300,000
Light the Longworth Park Ball Diamond
$75,000
Note: Assumed capital costs are stated in 2020 dollars as follows: $750,000 per lit hardball diamond; $300,000 per unlit softball
diamond (scaled to Neighbourhood Park standards); $75,000 to install lighting on an existing diamond
Tennis / ..
Re -install posts/nets and add overlay at Stuart Park
$25,000
3 tennis courts at the Newcastle Community Park
$180,000
3 pickleball courts at the Newcastle Community Park.
$60,000
4 tennis/pickleball multi -use courts in north
Bowmanville and Southeast Courtice Secondary Plan
$240,000
Lord Elgin Park asphalt pad redevelopment
$120,000
.m
Note: Assumed capital costs are stated in 2020 dollars as follows: $60.000 Der tennis/multi-use court: $20.000 Der Dickleball court
Note: Assumed capital costs are stated in 2020 dollars as follows: $40,000 per basketball court
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Active Transportation Master Plan
Already Funded
Skateboard/BMX park at Newcastle Community Park
$300,000
Provide a replacement site(s) for the Bowmanville
TBD
Allotment Gardens.
Construct an off -leash park in North Bowmanville
TBD
Improve trail connectivity
To be identified through the Active
Transportation Master Plan
Integrate "skate spots"
TBD based on future Neighbourhood Parks
development/redevelopment projects
Assume $125,000 per splash pad, total cost
Integrate splash pads at future Neighbourhood Parks
TBD based on distribution of future
Neighbourhood Parks
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Appendix A: Community Survey Results
Q1. In the past 12 months, which of the following outdoor recreation facilities have you or anyone in your
household used (whether in Clarington or elsewhere)? Please select all that may apply.
Recreational Trails
235
61 %
Splash Pads
207
54%
Soccer Fields
183
48%
Baseball / Hardball Diamonds
169
44%
Slo-Pitch / Softball Diamonds
106
28%
Basketball Courts
99
26%
Off -Leash Dog Park
88
23%
Skateboard and BMX Parks
64
17%
Tennis Courts
57
15%
Community Gardens
56
15%
Football Fields
29
8%
Lacrosse Fields
26
7%
Pickleball Courts
16
4%
Sand Volleyball Courts
14
4%
Rugby Fields
5
1%
Lawn Bowling Greens
5
1%
Cricket Pitches
1
0%
Bocce Courts
1
0%
Other
43
11%
Total
383
Other:
Playgrounds (20) Outdoor Ice Rink (2)
Open Space (10) Track (2)
Outdoor Pool (4) Beach (1)
Trails (4)
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Q2. If you and / or members of your household are not able to participate in outdoor recreation activities as
often as you would like, please indicate why. (select up to three responses)
Lack of desired outdoor facilities
121
33%
No barriers — We are able to participate as often as we would like.
113
30%
Lack of personal time / Too busy
98
26%
Lack of Information / Unaware of opportunities
66
18%
Activity not offered at a convenient time
49
13%
Lack of money / Too expensive
48
13%
Lack of transportation / Facility is too far away
21
6%
Lack of childcare
20
5%
Health problems / disability / age
11
3%
Don't know
6
2%
Not interested in outdoor recreation
3
1%
Language / Cultural barrier
0
0%
Other
31
8%
Total
371
Other:
Facility Conditions / Maintenance (14) Inadequate Facilities/Programs (2)
Accessibility (5) Lack of Volunteers (1)
Inadequate Hours (4)
Q3. If you or members of your household frequently use outdoor recreation facilities outside of the
Municipality of Clarington, please indicate said facility below. (please list a maximum of 2 activities)
Facilities (not listed in order):
Baseball Diamonds Tennis Courts
Soccer Fields Pickleball Courts
Rugby / Lacrosse Fields Sand Volleyball Courts
Cricket Pitches Dog Parks
Splash Pads Outdoor Pools
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Q4. For any of the facilities you noted in Question 3, why does your household use them outside of the
Municipality of Clarington? (select up to 3 responses)
I do NOT participate outside of Clarington
135
42%
Facility/program is not available in Clarington
78
24%
Quality of facility/program is superior
71
22%
Tournaments/Special events/Travel team
55
17%
"Connected" to other community/used to live there
23
7%
Facility/program not available at the preferred time
23
7%
Less expensive
17
5%
Don't know
8
2%
Closer to home
7
2%
Closer to work or school
4
1 %
Other
27
8%
Total
324
Other:
Facilities available in other communities (6) Personal preference (3)
Not enough facilities/space in Clarington (5) Change of scenery (2)
Undesirable field conditions (3)
Q5. To what extent do you agree or disagree with the following statements?
Strongly isa re Neither Agree Agree
Disagree p g nor Disagree g
# % % # % # J
Strongly Don't
Agree Know
Investment in outdoor recreation facilities should be
a„high„priority for Municipal Council.
16
..............._...................
5%
_.....................................
5
2%
........................................................................................
18
6%
72
23%
_............................................................................
206
65%
0
0%
Investment in trails should be a high priority for
17
5%
9
3%
52
16%
96
30%
141
44%
2
1%
Municipal Council.
Outdoor recreation facilities are distributed
50
16%
80
25%
66
21%
71
22%
31
10%
19
6%
equitably throughout the Municipality.
.....................
..........................................
_................... _
....................
.................. .................
....................
The Municipality's outdoor recreation facilities meet
....the needs of all ages.
60
19%
96
30%
58
18%
69
22%
20
6%
13
4%
The Municipality's outdoor recreation facilities are
accessible for persons with disabilities or special
23
7%
52
16%
85
27%
69
22%
18
6%
69
22%
needs.
..................................................................................................................................................................
_ ................... _
................
_............................................._.........................................
..........................................
_................. .................
....................
Trails in Clarington connect me to the places that 1
16
5%
78
25%
109
34%
72
23%
12
4%
30
9%
like to ao.
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Q6. Please indicate which of the following outdoor recreation facilities you feel the Municipality of
Clarington should prioritize in terms of additional public funds and/or providing additional access: (select
your top 3)
Recreational Trails
145
46%
Baseball / Hardball Diamonds
108
34%
Splash Pads
92
29%
Soccer Fields
62
20%
Slo-Pitch / Softball Diamonds
59
19%
Basketball Courts
35
11%
Community Gardens
34
11%
Off -Leash Dog Parks
32
10%
Skateboard and BMX Parks
27
9%
Mountain Bike Park
25
8%
Tennis Courts
23
7%
Other:
Playgrounds (13) Batting Cages (1)
Outdoor Ice Rink (8) Track (1)
Outdoor Pool (3) The Arts (1)
Environmental Protection (1)
Pickleball Courts
16
5%
Lacrosse Fields
14
4%
Sand Volleyball Courts
13
4%
Lawn Bowling Greens
5
2%
Football Fields
4
1%
Rugby Fields
4
1%
Cricket Pitches
3
1%
Bocce Courts
2
1%
Other
39
12%
Total
315
Q7. Please provide any additional comments or suggestions you may have regarding outdoor recreation
facilities in Clarington.
These open-ended answers encompassed a wide-ranging set of topics and thus are not summarized
herein; however, responses have been considered as part of the needs assessments where applicable to
the study scope.
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Q8. Do you or any members of your household
belong to an outdoor recreation organization or
club?
Yes 182 60%
No 122 40%
Total 304 100%
Q9. How many people live in
your household, including
yourself?
Average
3.9
Median
4.0
Mode
4.0
Q10. Please indicate the total number of people
011. In what year were you
within your household
in the following
age
born?
categories.
#
#
Year of
Age
HH
PPL
Birth
(2019)
Under 10 years
172
288
Average
1977
42
10-19 years
166
261
Oldest
1940
79
20-34 years
76
121
Youngest
2002
17
35-54 years
244
450
55-69 years
39
63
70 years or older
9
11
Total
1,194
Q12. Are you a resident of the Municipality of Clarington?
# % Other:
Yes 294 96% Ajax (1), Whitby (1), Scugog (1),
No 11 4% Pontypool (1), Oshawa (1)
Other 5
Total 305 100%
Q13. Which Municipality of Clarington settlement area do you live in or are closest to?
Settlement # % Settlement # %
Bowmanville
160
53%
Rural Area
Courtice
85
28%
Enniskillen
Hampton
2
1 %
Kendal
Newcastle
36
12%
Total
Orono
13
4%
2 1%
1 0%
1 0%
300 100%
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