HomeMy WebLinkAboutPDS-036-24
Staff Report
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Report To: Special General Government Committee
Date of Meeting: September 16, 2024 Report Number: PDS-036-24
Authored by: Andrei Micu, Manager, Parks Design and Development
Submitted By: Carlos Salazar, Deputy CAO, Planning and Infrastructure Services
Reviewed By: Mary-Anne Dempster, CAO
By-law Number: Resolution Number:
File Number:
Report Subject: Bowmanville Zoo Lands Park Master Plan
Recommendation:
1. That Report PDS-036-24, and any related delegations or communication items, be
received for information;
2. That Council endorse the proposed Bowmanville Zoo Lands Park Master Plan
guiding principles, vision, and concept;
3. That Council refer recommendations 4 and 5 to the meeting of October 28, 2024
alongside the Parks, Recreation, and Culture Master Plan;
4. That Council authorize Staff to implement the recommendations of the Bowmanville
Zoo Lands Master Plan by issuing a Request for Proposal to select a qualified
consultant to advance the Master Plan concept into detailed design for Phase I –
Trails;
5. That Council allocate $1,112,500.00 for Phase I – Trails to start construction in 2025
with a trail opening to the public in 2026 and,
6. That all interested parties listed in Report PDS-036-24 and any delegations be
advised of Council’s decisions.
Municipality of Clarington Page 2
Report PDS-036-24
Report Overview
The purpose of this Staff Report is to inform Council of the completion of the Bowmanville
Zoo Lands Master Plan, its integration with the Parks, Recreation, and Culture Master Plan,
and to report the key recommendations to support the multi-year development of the
Bowmanville Zoo Lands Park.
1. Background
1.1 In 2018, Council approved the acquisition of 13.7 hectares (34 acres) of land from the
previous Bowmanville Zoo lands from Farsight Investments Ltd. and Savannah Land
Corporation. The transfer of the property to the Municipality would be through a
gratuitous dedication as part of the subdivision approval process.
1.2 For more information on the transfer of the Bowmanville Zoo Lands, please refer to Staff
Reports PSD-065-18, PSD-071-18, and Confidential Report #LGL-005-18.
1.3 In August 2021, the land was officially transferred to Municipal Ownership.
1.4 In December 2021, Council passed Resolution #C-408-21 to direct Staff to undertake
the preparation of a comprehensive Parks Master Plan for the Bowmanville Zoo lands.
1.5 In May 2022, Council passed Resolution #GG-202-22 that directed Staff to form a
partnership with the Valleys 2000 organization with the intent to jointly develop the Park
Master Plan for the Bowmanville Zoo lands.
1.6 For more information on the Master Plan background, please refer to Staff Report PDS -
030-23.
1.7 In April 2023, Council passed Resolution #PD-039-23 that reads as follows:
1. That the Bowmanville Zoo Lands Park Concept Plan be included as part of the
proposed Parks Recreation and Culture Master Plan;
2. That staff be authorized to further the design and assess the feasibility, scope,
associated costs and p having of the implementation by extending the scope of work
of the consultants and that the cost be covered by the Planning and Infrastructure
Services 2023 Consulting Budget; and,
3. That all interested parties listed in Report PSD-030-23 be advised of Council’s
decision.
2. Discussion
2.1 The objective of the Bowmanville Zoo Lands Master Plan is to create a comprehensive
Park Master Plan that will establish a park identity and purpose. Currently the park land
has limited functionality with no public access.
Municipality of Clarington Page 3
Report PDS-036-24
2.2 The Bowmanville Zoo Lands is planned to be a destination municipal wide park for
residents, and it is likely to attract visitors from outside the community.
Guiding Principles for the Bowmanville Zoo Lands Park Master Plan
2.3 The Master Plan presents a vision for a new public park that will revitalize one of
Bowmanville’s most iconic destinations and landscapes. The former zoo lands will be
transformed into a public space that celebrates the natural heritage of the site and
creates a cultural hub for the community. The park will assume a new and important
role as a natural environment park and become a place for learning and for appreciating
the Soper Creek Valley.
2.4 The Master Plan was developed with a vision that focuses on a bold, inspiring signature
park for the community that is tied to the natural and cultural history of the property and
honors the legacy of Soper Creek and the former zoo lands while integrating the lands
into a broader trail system. The Master Plan was guided and formulated based on the
following principles:
Adhere to the Municipalities Strategic Priorities, noted in Section 5 below.
Develop the park as a Municipal wide destination park.
Integrate opportunities for public art.
Preserve and enhance the parks key ecological link within the Soper Creek
Valley.
Investigate sustainable uses that protect the natural environment and cultural
heritage assets.
Provide recreational opportunities for all ages and abilities of a growing
community.
Proposed Park Uses
2.5 The natural environment park will be an educational and cultural destination, a place of
respite and recreation for residents and visitors. The park will incorporate meadows that
attract pollinators, woodlands that attract birds and other wildlife, wet meadows for
amphibians and reptiles and the creek itself that winds through the park will continue to
provide habitat for a wide range of flora and fauna. There will be space within the
natural environment for cultural gatherings and installations and walking and cycling
trails will be integrated throughout the park. The park will connect to the broader trail
network and be part of the Bowmanville’s Circle of Green vision .
Municipality of Clarington Page 4
Report PDS-036-24
2.6 The new and restored landscapes of the park will provide special features and
destinations that are designed to enhance the experience of park visitors.
Demonstration gardens will serve as an introduction and orientation to the ecological
zones of the park. Restored and new wet and dry meadows will enrich both the ecology
of the park and visitor experience. The goal is to develop immersive landscapes that are
diverse and rich in both flora and fauna.
2.7 Woodlands throughout the park will be representative of the Soper Creek Valley system
and will create a strong armature that provides habitat for a variety of wildlife. In
addition, the woodlands will provide park visitors with shaded walking routes through a
variety of richly vegetated areas.
2.8 Parking and trails are important infrastructure that will enhance the function of the park.
The Master Plan proposes access into the park from all compass directions. Key access
points include one from King Street East, two from Mearns Avenue, one from Mearns
Park, one from Concession Street E., and lastly one from the new Timber Trails
Subdivision. Over time, trails within the park will provide direct access to the various
proposed park amenities.
Proposed Initial Phase and Timeline ‘Phase I – Trails’
2.9 The initial phase of implementation focuses on providing public access to the park
through the design and construction of strategic connection trails within the park that
generally align with the layouts identified in the Master Plan.
King Street East Node & Orientation Centre
2.10 The Master Plan proposes a main entry and arrival node on King Street that will
welcome and introduce visitors to the park. The area will include a pavilion, signage,
demonstration gardens, public art, parking, and trail connections, which will be
accommodated within lands currently owned by the Municipality.
Municipality of Clarington Page 5
Report PDS-036-24
3. Communication and Public Participation
3.1 Public engagement and consultation were integrated in the development of the Master
Plan. A communications and engagement strategy was developed by the Consultant,
The Planning Partnership, with significant input from Staff and leveraged the
Municipalities current communication channels. The strategy included in person and
virtual session where public were asked for input.
3.2 Two, two hour in-person public sessions were held on April 16, 2024, where The
Planning Partnership presented the vision and park concept. There was a total of 20
participants in each session who made notes and comments on the concept plan.
3.3 The engagement and consultation strategy also included an online survey compone nt
that ran for 3 weeks, concluding on April 26, 2024. There were 7,130 total views on the
Clarington Connected page with 159 total contributions (interactions).
3.4 A summary of the public participation is included as an Appendix within the Bowmanville
Zoo Lands Master Plan.
4. Financial Considerations
4.1 Vallys 2000 funded 100% of the costs to prepare the original concept plan intended to
provide a point of departure for continued conversation, engagement and consultation
with the community for the development of the Bowmanville Zoo Lands. The cost of
consulting services incurred by Valleys 2000 to date is $20,650.08.
4.2 The Municipality funded 100% of the costs to advance the Bowmanville Zoo Lands
Master Plan from the initial concept to the current Master Plan. The total cost of
consulting services approved and expected to be incurred by the Municipality is
$62,000.00 with $40,328.75 of that incurred to end of June 2024.
4.3 The Master Plan includes a Costing and Phasing component. The Planning Partnership
prepared a high-level order of magnitude costing exercise for the implementation of the
recommendations set forth in the Master Plan, at a total value of $21,465,000. The
order of magnitude costing is comprised of 7 ‘Focus Areas’ within the park and intended
to allow the Municipality to phase in the Master Plan strategies.
4.4 Certain amenities within the Master Plan Park Concept are eligible costs to be
recovered through development charges. The Municipality is currently working with a
consultant to include these costs in the Development Charge Background Study. Staff
will explore alternative funding options for ineligible costs such as Community Benefits
Charges and partnerships with Valleys 2000 for fundraising.
Municipality of Clarington Page 6
Report PDS-036-24
5. Strategic Plan
C.4.1: Promote and support local arts, culture, and heritage sectors.
The Master Plan recommends that public art be integrated through the park with
a focus on recalling the legacy of the Bowmanville Zoo as well as the natural and
cultural heritage of the area.
It is recommended that a public art master plan for the park be developed as part
of the next detailed design phases of the Park.
G.2.3: Develop and begin implementation of the Parks, Recreation, and Culture Master
Plan.
The Bowmanville Zoo Lands Master Plan is being integrated with the larger
Parks, Recreation, and Culture Master Plan, allowing the Municipality to
strategically begin implementing the recommendations set forth in both Plans.
G.3.2: Consider the creation of a community park on the former Bowmanville Zoo
Lands.
The development and adoption of the Bowmanville Zoo Lands Master Plan in
conjunction with the Parks, Recreation, and Culture Master Plan is the first step
in the creation of a municipal wide park on the former Bowmanville Zoo Lands.
G.4.3: Protect and enhance Clarington’s natural heritage.
The Master Plan has a strong focus on protecting the natural heritage of the
area. To implement the Master Plan, the Municipality will work with other levels of
government, including local Conservation Authorities to ensure the natural
heritage is protected and enhanced.
6. Climate Change
6.1 The adoption of the Bowmanville Zoo Lands Master Plan and the implementation of the
recommendations will strengthen the resilience of Municipal infrastructure as well as
protect ecosystems and biodiversity, in accordance with Clarington’s Corporate Climate
Action Plan.
7. Concurrence
7.1 Not Applicable.
8. Conclusion
8.1 It is respectfully recommended that Council endorse the proposed Bowmanville Zoo
Lands Park Master Plan guiding principles, vision, concept.
Municipality of Clarington Page 7
Report PDS-036-24
8.2 That Council authorize Staff to implement the recommendations of the Bowmanville Zoo
Lands Master Plan by issuing a Request for Proposal (RFP) to select a qualified
consultant to advance the Master Plan concept into detailed design, with the
implementation to be phased over several strategic stages. This work will include
expediting components of Phase 1 – Trails.
Staff Contact: Andrei Micu, Manager, Parks Design and Development, 905 -623-3379 ext.2439
or amicu@clarington.net
Attachments:
Attachment 1 - Bowmanville Park Master Plan, August 2024. Prepared by The Planning
Partnership.
Interested Parties:
The following interested parties will be notified of Council's decision:
Ron Strike, Valleys 2000
Kim Maxwell, Valleys 2000
Doug James, Valleys 2000
BowmanvillePark Master Plan
August 2024
The Municipality of Clarington is situated within the traditional and
treaty territory of the Mississaugas and Chippewas of the Anishinabeg,
known today as the Williams Treaties First Nations. Our work on
these lands acknowledges their resilience and their longstanding
contributions to the area now known as the Municipality of Clarington.
Land Acknowledgement
Contents
1 Introduction ........ 1
1.1 Zoo History ........1
1.2 Context & Location ........3
1.3 How We Got Here ........4
2 Vision & Concept Plan ........ 6
2.1 Access, Parking & Trails ........8
2.2 Landscapes ........10
2.3 Focus Areas ........14
A. Park Entrance / King Street Node ........15
B. Wet Meadow ........19
C. Natural Playground ........21
D. Mearns Park ........24
E. Amphitheatre / Meadow ........26
F. Multi-use Play Field ........29
3 Park Elements ........ 31
4 Public Art ........ 34
5 Costing & Phasing ........ 35
Soper Creek
Bowmanville Park Master Plan
1 Introduction
1.1 Zoo History
Bowmanville Zoo was once the oldest private
zoo in North America. Established in 1919,
it closed in 2016. Plans for the site’s future
include its redevelopment for parkland and
natural environment purposes with its eventual
inclusion in Clarington’s Resilient Circle of Green
surrounding Bowmanville’s historic boundaries.
The Circle incorporates the Bowmanville and
Soper creeks, and is a multi-active transportation
pathway for walkers, runners, hikers, cyclists and
others using non-automotive modes of mobility.
The site once occupied by the Zoo, is on the
banks of the Soper Creek. The Cream of Barley
Mill (today’s Visual Arts Centre of Clarington), is
located farther south on the creek. At one time,
both were part of James Morden’s ambitious
plan after World War I to develop a diverse visitor
attraction featuring a campground, cabins, a
zoo, a swimming pool, and other recreational
opportunities. In pursuit of his vision, Morden
hired Alfred Shrubb, to help manage and promote
the Cream of Barley Camp. Shrubb was known
as the world’s greatest runner between 1903 and
1912. Shrubb’s rivals before the war had included
the renowned First Nations runner Tom Longboat
against whom he competed in a celebrated series
of both indoor and outdoor marathon-length
encounters. During his association with the zoo,
Shrubb would use the ponies housed in the front
of the zoo, as partners in interval training. This
type of training technique was first developed
by Shrubb, and is recognized now as one of the
more sophisticated techniques of developing high
levels of fitness, although today, pony partner use
is optional.
In the long run the two survivors of Morden’s
vision were the Zoo and the Cream of Barley Mill,
with the latter being managed by Shrubb, who
lived in Bowmanville for the rest of his life.
The Bowmanville Zoo remained a popular
attraction not only locally but for tourists. As well,
it prepared many animals for feature films. As
examples, Bongo and Caesar, two African lions,
starred in the 1996 movie Ghost and Darkness,
featuring Val Kilmer and Michael Douglas.
Additionally, a Bengal tiger named Jonas, had
a role in the Oscar-winning 2012 movie, Life of
Pi. Angus, a male African elephant, appeared as
Jumbo in the A and E production of The Life and
Times of Phineas T. Barnum, and surpassed the
original Jumbo in both height and weight. Over
the years the animals and their various keepers
were also regular performers on numerous nature
productions and children’s television shows.
The Zoo’s demise was an unfortunate
consequence of changing societal views of
privately owned captive exotic animals. In light of
the extensive relationship between the zoo and
its local citizenry, a large proportion of the land
was donated to the Municipality for the creation of
recreational green space, in order that the citizens
of Clarington could continue to enjoy the property.
1Municipality of Clarington | The Planning Partnership
Location Map
Bowmanville
Park
King
S
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Timber Trails
Subdivision
East
Bowmanville
Park
Existing Residential
To Downtown
Bowmanville Mearns AvenueBowmanville Mall
Lands not currently
owned by the Municipality
2 Bowmanville Park Master Plan
1.2 Location & Context
The Zoo lands comprise 34 acres abutting King
Street East and Mearns Avenue in Bowmanville.
The lands are located north of the Bowmanville
Cemetery and west of the newly developing
residential area, Timber Trails. The map illustrates
the relation of Timber Trails to the site and some of
the development’s planned park space adjacent
to the lands and a stormwater management pond.
A road adjacent to the park with houses only on
the east side enables physical and visual access
to the new park site through Timber Trails. The
lands are connected to the Soper Creek Trail to
the north and provides great opportunity to further
develop and enhance the Soper Creek Trail
system.
CITY OF
OSHAWA
CITY OF
OSHAWA
MUNICIPALITYOF PORT HOPEMUNICIPALITYOF PORT HOPETOWNSHIP
OF CAVAN
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TOWNSHIP
OF SCUGOG
CITY OF
KAWARTHA
LAKES
CITY OF
KAWARTHA
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Regional
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Concession Street East
King Avenue EastHolt RoadBaseline Road East Main StreetRegionalRd 17
Ganaraska Road
Regional
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Taunton Road
RegionalRd18Courtice RoadBloor Street Darlington-Clarke Townline RoadTaunton Road
KingStreet East
RegionalHighway2 Bethesda RoadTownline Road SouthRegional Rd 20Concession Rd 9
Concession Rd 4
Concession Rd 6
Solina RoadEnfield RoadConcession Rd 3Green RoadLiberty Street NorthBowmanville AvenueConcession Rd 3
Trulls RoadTownline Road North35HighwayBaseline Road
Regional Rd 3
Pebblestone Road
Lambs RoadConcession Rd 9
Concession Rd 7 Bowmanville Avenue
Boundary R o a d
LibertyStreetNorthNash Road
Courtice Bowmanville
Newcastle
Orono
Burketon
Enniskillen
Enfield
Haydon
Tyrone Leskard
Kirby
Kendal
Solina
Hampton
Brownsville Newtonville
Wilmot Creek
Maple
Grove
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Lake OntarioBowmanville Zoo Lands
Context Map
3Municipality of Clarington | The Planning Partnership
Valleys 2000 hosted a design workshop with the
Municipality of Clarington and local stakeholders to
develop a Vision and concepts for the lands.
September 2022
2023 November
Lands were gratuitously
dedicated to the
Municipality.
2018
2021 December
Clarington Council passed
a resolution directing staff of
the Public Works Department
to form a partnership with the
Valleys 2000 organizationto
develop a plan for the
Bowmanville Zoo lands.
The high-level park concept
produced through the
workshop, was formalized
in the Bowmanville Park
Concept report, February
2023.
February 2023
Council directed that the
Bowmanville Park Concept be
included as part of the Parks
Recreation and Culture Master
Plan. Staff authorized to further
the design and assess the
feasibility of the implementation
by extending the scope of work
of the consultants.
2023 May
The extended scope was initiated
in a kick-off meeting with staff. The
Initial Concept was reviewed in the
context of available based data /
information.
1.3 How We Got Here
When the Bowmanville Zoo closed after nearly
100 years of private operation, the land was sold
to a developer and a portion (approximately
34 acres) was donated to the Municipality of
Clarington for a public park.
This tremendous opportunity started a process
that would lead to the reimagination of the former
Bowmanville Zoo lands as a public park.
Clarington Council passed a resolution on
December 31, 2021 directing staff of the Public
Works Department to form a partnership with the
Valleys 2000 organization to develop a concept
plan for the Bowmanville Zoo lands.
The purpose of the plan was to establish a vision for
the park and to provide the basis for more detailed
planning and design.
Valleys 2000 is a volunteer charity organization with
a board of community leaders. Their mandate is to
raise funds to help develop, enhance, promote and
preserve trails, naturalize river banks, enhance fish
and wildlife habitat and improve interpretive signage
along the Bowmanville and Soper Creek Valleys.
Valleys 2000 gathered a group of diverse
stakeholders together to share ideas on the
possibilities for the site, at a “charrette” style design
workshop. The feedback gathered at this workshop
informed this high-level park concept for the
Bowmanville Zoo lands.
4 Bowmanville Park Master Plan
February 2024
2024 April
May 2024 Next Steps
(TBD)
The extended scope commenced
with a workshop with staff and
stakeholders. The Initial Concept
was updated based on new
information provided by staff.
An in-person public workshop was held
and an online survey was launched
to present the updated concept and
get input from the public / community
(those results are summarized under
section 1.4, on the following pages).
The Concept Plan was refined with, feedback from
public consultation, stakeholders, staff and consultant
team. The Master Plan Report was prepared with
recommendations regarding programming, park
elements, landscaping, and high-level costing/
phasing.
2024 June
The Final Master Plan Report was
presented to Council.
Valleys 2000 Workshop
As part of the community engagement for the
Bowmanville Park master plan, the Town conducted
an online survey and an in-preson workshop to
engage with residents who shared their opinions on
the park design concept. The results of the online
survey and comments from the workshop are
included in Appendix A of this report.
It is recommended that future consultation with
Indigenous communities be undertaken, including
circulation of the final Master Plan report.
5Municipality of Clarington | The Planning Partnership
33
22
1111
1010
88
44
11
77
55
1212
Legend
Community, Culture and Edu-
cation
1. Visitor / Welcome Centre
2. Gathering / Event Space
3. Performance Amphitheatre
4. Commemorative Forest
5. Demonstration Garden
Recreational / Play Elements
6. Trails
7. Multi-use play field
8. Playground
9. Fitness Station
Landscape Typologies
10. Woodland
11. Dry Meadow
12. Wet Meadow
Park Amenities
Washrooms
ParkingPP
wcwc
88
66
66
99
wcwc
PP
PP
wcwcPP
NN
6 Bowmanville Park Master Plan
2 Vision and Concept Plan
The master plan presents a 21st century vision for a
new public park that will revitalize one of Bowmanville’s
most iconic destinations and landscapes. The former
zoo lands will be transformed into a public space
that celebrates the natural heritage of the site and
creates a cultural hub for the community. Through
this revitalization process, the park will assume a new
and important role as a natural environment park and
become a place for learning and for appreciating the
flora and fauna of the Soper Creek Valley. The park will
also showcase the extraordinary landscape of the Great
Lakes Region that reestablished itself post glaciation,
over ten thousand years ago, and was the territory
of Indigenous peoples until colonization only a few
hundred years ago.
From the meandering cold-water creek to the
meadows, wetlands and forests that define its character
and ecological function today, the new park will be a
place of discovery to experience nature throughout the
year. It will be a destination for people of all ages and
abilities, for students, educators and wildlife observers
and will serve as a backyard for local residents who can
enjoy the trails and features of the park every day. An
adventure playground with a natural environment theme
will be a centre piece of the park attracting children and
families from around the region. Culture will be imbued
into all aspects of the park. There will be gathering
spaces, including an outdoor amphitheatre for live
performances, a big lawn for community celebrations
and gatherings and art installations, both permanent
and temporary, will be choreographed throughout the
park.
The park will also pay tribute to the 100 years of the
Bowmanville Zoo history, recalling the extraordinary
and exotic animals who lived there and were beloved
by the community. Many of those animals were
celebrities themselves and will be remembered through
the interpretative program and commemorative
installations. In the decades to come, this moment
in time will signal the rebirth of the Bowmanville Zoo
Lands into one of the country’s most treasured natural
environment and culture parks.
A bold, inspiring signature park for the community of Bowmanville
that is tied to the natural and cultural history of the property by
honouring the legacy of Soper Creek and the former zoo and
integrating the lands into the broader trail system.
The Brickworks, Toronto
7Municipality of Clarington | The Planning Partnership
2.1 Access, Parking & Trails
Access, parking and trails are important
infrastructural elements that will enhance the
function of the park.
Access & Parking
Vehicular access to the park will be from King
Street East and Mearns Avenue. Access points will
connect directly to parking areas.
Two accesses are proposed along King Street
East - the first, located to the west of the
orientation centre, where a limited number of
parking spaces will accommodate staff, visitors
with mobility requirements and deliveries, will be
located.
The other access along this primary road will
be the primary entrance to the park, where
approximately 60 - 70 parking spaces will be
provided. From this location, park visitors will have
direct access to the orientation centre, the event
space and the demonstration gardens. Trails will
provide connection to the amphitheatre, butterfly
garden and meadow.
A secondary access is proposed along Mearns
Avenue where approximately 40 - 45 parking
spaces will be provided. From this location, park
visitors will have access to the natural playground
area as well as the wetland meadow feature.
Trails
Building on the existing trail system, a hierarchy of
new trail types will be introduced throughout the
park to enhance connectivity and circulation.
A major north-south multiuse trail will extend from
the King / Mearns intersection to the north end of
the park. It will be a 3.5m-4.0m wide asphalt trail
that potentially provides for designated pedestrian
and cyclist areas. A second trail typology will
connect the feature areas of the park and provide
a 2.5m - 3.0m wide accessible route paved in
asphalt. These are shown on the diagram to the
left.
A third trail typology will provide access into
the natural areas of the park and will be either
stone mulch or wood mulch depending on the
surrounding ecology. The boardwalk is a fourth
trail type and is specifically designed to provide
access around the wetland meadow.
Legend
Existing Trail
Type 1 (3.5m -4.0m)
Type 2 (2.5 - 3.0m)
Parking
Vehicular Access
King Str
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a
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tMearns Ave.Barley Mill
C
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8 Bowmanville Park Master Plan
Primary / Secondary Trail Tertiary Trail
Curbless Parking Area Permeable Pavers in Parking Area
9Municipality of Clarington | The Planning Partnership
King Str
e
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E
a
s
tMearns Ave.Barley Mill
C
r
e
s
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Soper Creek
Woodland
Woodland
Mature trees / Woodland Soper Creek Meadow
Existing Landscapes
2.2 Landscapes
The new and restored landscapes wrap around
the core area of the park providing special
features and destinations that are designed
to enhance the experience of park visitors.
They increase both the ecological diversity of
the park and the experiential diversity. From
the demonstration gardens that serve as an
introduction and orientation to the ecological
zones of the park to the streetscapes and
neighbourhoods that line the edges of the park,
to the wet and dry meadows, these new and
restored landscapes will enrich both the ecology
of the park and the visitor experience. They are
intended to be immersive landscapes that are
diverse and rich in both flora and fauna. They
will serve as education touch points and part
of the interpretive program of the park. The
streetscapes surrounding the park will also be
designed to create a strong frame around the
park comprised of native tree and understory
plantings and incorporate pedestrian and cycling
paths.
Existing Woodlands
The woodlands create a strong armature that
weaves throughout the park providing habitat for
a variety of wildlife including birds, reptiles and
small and large mammals. The woodlands of the
park are representative of the Soper Creek valley
system and include both low and upland species.
They provide critical shading for the cold-water
creek. For visitors they provide for shaded
walking trails through a variety of richly vegetated
areas that are both wet and dry where visitors
can experience walking through an understory of
trilliums, ferns, moss covered logs.
10 Bowmanville Park Master Plan
Legend
Park Landscape / Demonstration Gardens
Street Edges
Screening
Wet Meadow
Dry Meadow / Butterfly Gardens
King Str
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tMearns Ave.Barley Mill
C
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Enhanced / Restored Landscapes
Sample plantings within the Park Landscape / Demonstration Gardens
Black-Eyed Susan
(Rudbeckia hirta)
Wild Lupine
(Lupinus perennis)
Blazing Star
(Liatris spicata)
Existing Soper Creek
The creek is a critical part of the natural
environment weaving through the park creating
discrete areas of the park. Four bridges cross the
creek and provide points of interest to stop and
look for fish, reptiles and other wildlife. The edges
of the creek will be armored at some critical points
to maintain infrastructure, but the other areas
should be allowed to naturalize and erode as part
of the natural process.
New and Enhanced Landscapes
The development of the park will include the
creation of new landscapes associated with the
focus areas of activity and enhancement of the
existing woodlands and creek. The landscapes
envisioned include:
Park Landscape / Demonstration Gardens
will be focused around the Main Entrance, the
Adventure Playground and Mearns Parkette and
organized around their respective activity, seating
and circulation areas. The planting approach
for these areas should highlight a native planting
palette with some year-round ornamental interest.
11Municipality of Clarington | The Planning Partnership
Sample plants within the Screen Landscape
Ironwood
(Celtis occidentalis)
Eastern White Pine
(Pinus strobus)
Red Maple
(Acer rubrum)
Quercus macrocarpa
(Burr oak)
Redbud
(Cercis canadensis)
Blackgum
(Nyssa sylvatica)
The landscape along the Street Edges should
be arranged to define the boundary of the park,
and create a strong and consistent presence
within the public realm. The approach to planting
should emphasizes large canopy trees to provide
shade along the sidewalk and bold swathes of
understorey plantings.
The plantings along the interface of the park
with adjacent private rear yards should provide
a Landscape Screen that effectively defines the
edges of the park and also creates pockets of
shade and landscape interest for both park users
and adjacent residents.
Sample plants along the Street Edges
The Wet Meadow landscape that is proposed at
the Mearns Avenue and King Street East corner of
the park currently functions as an open wetland
habitat with soils that are saturated for part or
all of the growing season. As a wet meadow
landscape, the approach to planting should be
characterized by predominantly herbaceous (non-
woody) plants that may include any combination
of grasses, sedges, rushes, ferns, and forbs.
The vegetation may be low and sparse, or tall
and dense, depending on environmental factors.
12 Bowmanville Park Master Plan
Bog Goldenrod
(Solidago uliginosa)
Swamp Aster
(Symphyotrichum puniceum)
Blue Vervain
(Verbena hastata)
Wild Bergamot
(Monarda fistulosa)
Golden Alexander
(Zizia aurea)
New York Ironweed
(Vernonia noveboracensis)
Canada Wildrye
(Elymus canadensis)
Sample plants within the Wet Meadow Landscape
Although standing water may be present at times,
especially in winter or spring or after rainstorms, it
may not persist for long, and many Wet Meadows
have little if any standing water through much of
the growing season.
The Dry Meadow landscape is an open upland
habitat typically found on thin, infertile soil and in
this case, in an old field occupying the eastern
portion of the park, framed on the north and south
by woodlands. The vegetation is dominated by
herbaceous (non-woody) plants and consists
mostly of forbs and grasses tolerant of dry,
nutrient-poor conditions.
The Dry Meadow planting approach should
feature drought-tolerant species established from
a seed mix directly sown in-situ over a base layer
of sand to provide a free-draining base for plant
establishment.
13Municipality of Clarington | The Planning Partnership
CC
AA
DD
FF
EE
BB
2.3 Focus Areas
The concept plan introduces six areas of focus that offer various educational, cultural destination,
recreational experiences to the park user. These are generally arranged around the perimeter of the
park, with access and visibility from the surrounding street fabric, and connected by the existing and new
system of trails.
14 Bowmanville Park Master Plan
AA
A1A1 A2A2
A4A4
ParkingParking
ParkingParking
**
**
**
A. Park Entrance / King Street Node
The main entry and arrival area on King Street is designed
as a park orientation centre that will welcome local residents,
visitors and school groups. The area will include a pavilion with
interpretive signage, public art, demonstration gardens, parking,
and trail connections into the park. It will be an inspirational
introduction to the park where visitors will learn about the
park’s ecology including Soper Creek and its role in the larger
watershed along the north shore of Lake Ontario. It will tell the
story of Indigenous settlement over millennia and the colonial
settlement of the area over the past few centuries. Importantly
it will tell the story of the former Bownmanville Zoo and it’s role
in the evolution of the municipality. Demonstration gardens
will provide a sampling of the types of ecology in the park
and provide information on transferable ecological gardening
approaches.
******
Site Elements
Wayfinding / Interpretive Signage
Seating / Waste & Recycling
Bins
Bicycle Parking
15Municipality of Clarington | The Planning Partnership
Existing building
Features
A1. Orientation Centre
The property located on King Street East, to the
west of the subject lands provide the opportunity
to be developed as part of the gateway to the
park. These lands, which are not currently owned
by the municipality, should be considered for
future acquisition.
The existing building that currently sits on the
property should be reimagined to create a new
accessible visitor / welcome centre. The visitor
centre shall be designed as an orientation,
education and interpretation hub and include
programmed interior and exterior spaces for
community use.
There is the opportunity to incorporate green
building technologies into the design of
the building as well as to make the buiding
accessible, including the washrooms.
A small parking lot should be provided on the
west side of building. Here a small number
of staff and accessible parking spaces may
be provided along with space for deliveries.
In general, parking lots in the park should be
designed without barrier curbs and be graded to
direct stormwater into adjacent landscaped areas.
The areas around the building should be
designed as a series of demonstration gardens
where local species of shrubs, perennial and
annuals may be incorporated. The addition
of interpretive signage to enhance the user
experience and opportunities for indigenous
placemaking should be considered.
Orientation Centre
Orientation Centre - Outdoor Gardens
16 Bowmanville Park Master Plan
Orientation Centre - View from King Street East
17Municipality of Clarington | The Planning Partnership
A2. Gathering / Event Space
The proposed gathering area / event space is an
extension of the visitor / welcome centre; together,
these two areas of the plan should be viewed as
the main gateway to the park and developed as
such.
The gathering / event space is anchored by an
open air pavilion that forms a sculptural landmark
on the site and anchors the space. The paved
area on the east side of he pavilion is intended to
function as a plaza, be flexible and accomodate
a variety of formal and informal gatherings.
Measuring approximately 120 square metres in
size, this area could potentially accommodate 240
to 360 persons standing or 225 persons seated
for performances, for example.
The gardens framing this space will be planted in
a similar fashion as the gardens around the visitor
centre, and include demonstration gardens.
Open Air Pavilion
Event / Gathering SpaceOrientation Centre - Outdoor Gardens
A3. Pedestrian Bridge
There are three pedestrian bridges proposed as
part of the Master Plan. These will provide access
across Soper Creek and connectivity to the trails
system.
The design of the bridges shall be coordinated
and consistent throughout the park. A unifying
design expression will draw from the character of
the park context and also provide a counterpoint
to the natural setting.
A4. Potential Trail Connection
A potenial trail connection will extend toward
the eastern limit of the park and travel along the
Soper Creek under King Street East to emerge on
the south side of the Road.
The potential trail would connect the park to the
East Bowmanville Park and the overflow parking
area located on the south side of King Street East.
18 Bowmanville Park Master Plan
BB
B1B1
**
B. Wet Meadow
The wet meadow will be enhanced, enlarged and developed
as a special feature area and destination within the park. It will
be planted with indigenous dry and wet meadow species. A
boardwalk trail will connect through the wetmeadow providing
controlled access for visitors to see the range of flora and fauna
including turtles, frogs, and other wildlife. Interpretive signage
will describe the importance of wet meadow in the regional
landscape. Immediately adjacent to the west parking lot and
drop off area will provide access for visitors including those with
mobility issues.
B1B1******
Site Elements
Wayfinding / Interpretive Signage
Seating / Waste & Recycling Bins
Bicycle Parking
BoardwalkB1B1
19Municipality of Clarington | The Planning Partnership
Features
B1. Boardwalk Trail
A boardwalk trail will connect through the
wetmeadow providing controlled access for
visitors to potentially view the range of flora and
fauna including turtles, frogs, and other wildlife.
There are two portions of the boardwalk proposed
- one accessed from King Street East and the
other from Mearns Avenue. The design of the
boardwalk should include integrated seating and
visually permeable railings.
Interpretive signage will be provided in key
locations to describe the importance of the
wetmeadow in the local and regional landscape.
Boardwalks
Pedestrian Boardwalk
20 Bowmanville Park Master Plan
CC
C1C1
C2C2
C3C3
C. Natural Playground
The playground is designed as a destination
nature-based play area with natural elements
including logs seating, moveable materials, nature
gardens and water collectors.
The proposed natural playground will be a new
experience for the children of Bowmanville.
The parking and drop off area immediately south
of the playground will provide access for parents
with small children and for those who require
mobility devices.
******
Site Elements
Wayfinding / Interpretive Signage
Seating / Waste & Recycling
Bins
Bicycle Parking
Play Elements
Washroom Building
Shade Structure / Canopy
C1C1
C3C3
C2C2
21Municipality of Clarington | The Planning Partnership
C1. Play Elements
The natural playground area is intended to
be a learning environment where children
experiment with natural materials to create play
environments. Key components include the use
of natural materials such as tree logs, rocks, sand,
branches, natural gardens etc. It’s envisioned that
there would be a limited number of fixed objects
including climbing structures, swings and slides.
The intent is for the children to experiment with
materials and to create play environments that
change based on their imaginations.
Part of the play area will be dedicated to a water
play component that has similar elements and
attributes.
A water play feature will be incorporated that
references the nearby Soper Creek. The
playground should be surrounded by canopy
trees to provide shade.
The playground will be designed by professionals
with expertise in this type of installation. The
playground must be accessible and designed for
a range of ages and abilities.
Natural playgroundsWashroom building with a shade canopy
C2. Washroom Building
A washroom building is proposed to be located
to the south of the play area, immediately
adjacent to the trail. In this location, which is
intended to also be conveniently accessed from
the boardwalk and amphitheatre areas, the new
building will form a landmark/ focal point for the
area. As such, it should be designed as a pavilion
in the landscape and incorporate the use of
natural, innovative and sustainable materials and
technologies
22 Bowmanville Park Master Plan
Natural / Adventure Playground
C3. Shade Structure / Canopy
A canopy structure is proposed to provide imme-
diate cover over a seating / picnic area adjacent
to the playground. The concept plan, and the
image below depicts a canopy structure that is
designed as an extension of the washroom build-
ing. As such, its design shall be integrated with
that of the washroom structure.
23Municipality of Clarington | The Planning Partnership
DD
D1D1
D2D2
D3D3**
****
D. Mearns Park
Mearns Park is located within an existing residential area, with
frontage along Barley Mill Crescent. It serves as a local amenity
for the neighbourhood and currently has a small playground,
some seating and trails.
The park has open areas of grass that are manicured with trees
dotted within these areas. There are opportunities to introduce
additional plantings in the park, to enhance the natural setting
and to screen adjacent back yards while providing privacy for
those residents.
The Master Plan assumes that the existing playground will
remain as is and new trails, site furnishings and signage will be
organized around this space.
******
Site Elements
Wayfinding / Interpretive Signage
Seating / Waste & Recycling Bins
Bicycle Parking
Playground
Seating Area
Fitness Stations
D1D1
D2D2
D3D3
24 Bowmanville Park Master Plan
Features
D1. Playground
A new playground is proposed to the southeast of
the existing playground. Its location, at a transition
to the woodlands, provides an opportunity to
expand the amenity in this park and to create a
playground that is nature based.
As such, its design should emphasize the use of
wood and natural materials and should reference
the main adventure playground and incorporate
the use of wood play structures. The playground
should be designed for children of all ages and
abilities and incorporate a rubberized play surface
for safety, ease of access and maintenance.
D2. Seating Area
A seating area is proposed to be located between
the existing and new playground areas. Here,
tables and chairs, some with shade structures
such as umbrellas, shall provide opportunities for
seating and gathering.
D3. Fitness Stations
Along the existing trail that extends northward
from Mearns Park, intermittent fitness stations are
proposed to activate the trail. The Master Plan
concept shows three fitness stations however,
more may be considered depending on the level
of service that is to be identified.
Natural playgrounds
25Municipality of Clarington | The Planning Partnership
EE
E1E1
E2E2
E3E3
**
****
E. Amphitheatre / Meadow
The amphitheater is designed as an integrated gathering space
for outdoor education and small outdoor concerts and theatre in
the park. The materials of the amphitheater should blend with
the surrounding environment using natural stone seating ledges
and granular surface finishes. It will create a semi-circular
seating area surrounded by trees and vegetation that create a
spatial frame around it.
******
Site Elements
Wayfinding / Interpretive Signage
Seating / Waste & Recycling Bins
Bicycle Parking
Stone Seating Ledges
Granular Walkways
Butterfly Gardens
E1E1
E2E2
E3E3
26 Bowmanville Park Master Plan
Amphitheatre
27Municipality of Clarington | The Planning Partnership
Features
E1. Stone Seating Ledges
The proposed amphitheatre anchors the central
portion of the park, situated between the
adventure playground and multi-purpose field
and connected to both, as well as the park main
entrance by way of the network of trails.
The amphitheatre shall be formed by a series of
semi-circular, stepped seating ledges made up of
large rectangular stones.
E2. Granular Walkways
The natural setting of the amphitheatre should
be enhanced throught the use of low impact
designs and materials; as such, walkways and
paved surfaces in the area should be paved with a
permeable material such as stone fines.
E3. Butterfly Gardens
The proposed butterfly gardens are part of the
meadow landscape that encircle the multi-use
field and provide a transition form this area to the
amphitheatre. From the park main entrance, the
main trail leads visitors across the new pedestrian
bridge, and along a trail to access these gardens.
Similarly, from the adventure playground, a
second pedestrian bridge provides access across
the Soper Creek to this feature.
Granular walkway
Stone seating ledges
Butterfly garden
28 Bowmanville Park Master Plan
FF
F1F1
F2F2
F3F3
******
F. Multi-use Play Field
The multi-use play field sits within the eastern portion of the
park, accessed from the three main park entrances - Mearns
Avenue, King Street East and Mearns Park (Barley Mill Crescent)
by way of the network of trails and pedestrian bridges.
The multi-use play field is also connected to the future
subdivision by way of the future park and stormwater
management pond facility in that plan.
******
Site Elements
Wayfinding / Interpretive
Signage
Seating / Waste & Recycling Bins
Bicycle Parking
Mown Field
Meadow
Rest Area
F1F1
F2F2
F3F3
29Municipality of Clarington | The Planning Partnership
Features
F1. Mown Field
The multi-purpose field is designed to be a mown
area within the larger meadow area of the park. It
is intended to be used for community gatherings,
cultural programming and sports activities. It will
not be a manicured sports field but rather a robust
sustainable grassed area.
F2. Meadow
The meadow areas that surround the mown lawn
will be mowed once a year to ensure that meadow
species are maintained and managed.
F3. Rest Area
The intersection of trails and trail connections
provide opportunities for create rest areas
that have seating and wayfinding / interpretive
signage. A number of locations around the multi-
purpose field may be develoment as rest areas.
Rest area / trails in meadow
Mown field within a meadow
30 Bowmanville Park Master Plan
3 Park Elements
The character and functionality of Bowmanville
Park will enhanced by a coordinated family
of park / site elements. This will include
seating, table & chairs, garbage / recycling
receptacles, signage and lighting.
Site Furniture should be of contemporary,
resilient and robust in design. They will
reflect the character of the park and where
possible, incorporate wood and steel and
create a strong identity that distinguishes
the park from others in the municipality.
Where possible natural materials should be
used, including wood, stone and bare metals.
The furnishings should be comfortable and
be designed for a range of ages incorporating
accessible design elements. There should
be a wide range of furnishings for different
conditions from traditional bench seats with
backs to seating ledges to picnic tables and other
types. Garbage receptacles should be designed
to meet park maintenance requirements.
Site furniture should be selected from a Canadian
supplier for ease of maintenance and replacement
when needed. The palette of furnishings should
Seating along the boardwalk trail Trail seating and lighting element
Seating / Play Element
31Municipality of Clarington | The Planning Partnership
Picnick tables located at the main entrance and around the
playground areas
Waste / recycling receptacle Wayfinding / interpretive Signage located along a trail, in
combination with a rest area.
Wayfinidng / interpretive signage located within a
woodland.
Wayfinidng / interpretive signage located in a rest area and
combined with a waste / recycling component.
Picnic table located in the meadow
create a uniform aesthetic that is immediately
recognizable as part of the park identification.
A unified Signage system should be designed to
contribute to the identity of the park. There should
be a range of signage types including interpretive,
directional and information related. The use of
natural materials for the signposts and structures
is recommended. The signage system should
be highly graphic and intuitive and appealing for
a wide range of users. Themes should include
the Bownmanville Zoo, Soper Creek, Indigenous
and Colonial settlement, park flora and fauna.
32 Bowmanville Park Master Plan
Insect Hotel
Bird HouseInsect Hotel
Integrating Manmade Habitats for birds
and insects should be integrated within the
landscape to provide educational moments
throughout the park. They should be designed
to be visible, and informative and they should
target specific birds, insects and other wildlife.
They could be designed in collaboration
with artist and ecologists. Interpretation
should be integrated with the installations.
33Municipality of Clarington | The Planning Partnership
4 Public Art
Public art provides the opportunity to animate the park and create focal points while telling the story of the zoo and the history of these lands.
Public Art should be integrated throughout
the park. Public art provides the opportunity
to animate the park and create focal points
while recalling the legacy of the Bowmanville
Zoo as well as the natural and cultural
heritage of the area. The public art collection,
developed overtime, should be curated and
should include both permanent and temporary
installations. Public art competitions should
be professionally organized to ensure fairness
and the highest quality. A public art master
plan for the park should be developed
as part of the next phase of design.
34 Bowmanville Park Master Plan
6 Costing &
Phasing
The order of magnitude costing is a high-lev-
el exercise provided for budget allocation
purposes only. The calculations are generally
based on the areas and elements identified on
the concept plan, multiplied by area unit costs
gleaned from similar constructed public park
projects. Since these costs are not based
upon approved detailed designs, they do not
account for any required infrastructure ser-
vicing, detailed site investigations, site prepa-
ration, supply of materials, labour costs and
construction staging / phasing.
The organization of the following summary of
costs is intended to allow a potential phasing
strategy based on focus areas.
King Street East / Main Entrance......................... $4,350,000
• Visitor Welcome / Orientation Centre
• Shade Structure Pavilion
• Parking Lot
• Pedestrian Areas
• Landscaped Areas
• Benches, Waste/Recycling Receptacles
• Lighting
Wet Meadow / Boardwalk..................................... $2,000,000
• Pedestrian Boardwalk
• Parking Lot
• Pedestrian Areas
• Landscaped Areas / Wet Meadow
• Benches, Waste/Recycling Receptacles
• Lighting
Adventure Playground.......................................... $5,000,000
• Washroom Building / Canopy Structure
• Playground / Splash Pad
• Pedestrian Areas
• Landscaped Areas / Demonstration Gardens
• Benches, Waste/Recycling Receptacles
Mearns Parkette................................................... $1,200,000
• Playground
• Pedestrian Areas
• Landscaped Areas
• Benches, Waste/Recycling Receptacles
• Lighting
Amphitheatre ....................................................... $1,170,000
• Terraced Seating
• Pedestrian Trails
• Landscaped Areas / Butterfly Gardens
• Benches, Waste/Recycling Receptacles
Multi-purpose Play Field....................................... $1,150,000
• Play Field
• Meadow / Butterfly Gardens
• Benches, Waste/Recycling Receptacles
• Trails
Miscellaneous....................................................... $1,680,000
• Street Trees
• Pedestrian Bridges (3)
• Park Signage
• Fitness Stations
General Conditions (Mobilization)........................ $1,800,000
Contractor Fee...................................................... $ 655,500
Construction Contingency.................................... $1,640,000
Design Consulting Fees....................................... $ 820,000
TOTAL................................................................$21,465,000
Public art provides the opportunity to animate the park and create focal points while telling the story of the zoo and the history of these lands.
35Municipality of Clarington | The Planning Partnership
Appendix A
Public Consultation
Detailed Analysis
Category Up
Votes
Down
Votes
Comment
1.
Gateway/Park
Entrance
15 0 As someone who doesn’t drive, will there be DRT stops at the
entrance? If there is will there be a way for people to cross
from the south?
23 0 Very happy with this proposal. It will bring a community gather-
ing/green space to this underserved area. A splashpad would
be a nice addition
5 0 Do we have a rough timeline yet? This park was announced
years ago, but with such little progress so far, I’m concerned it
may never happen.
2.
Visitor Welcome
Centre
4 3 It’s important to make all upgrades to our region with the new
generation in mind. Tap n Go’s, QR codes, mobile robotic info
guides.
15 6 How about the inclusion of the First Nations peoples’ contribu-
tions to the area in addition to a large posted Land Acknowl-
edgment
3.
Parking
8 15 Why such excessive parking spaces? Bowmanville is not even
that big and we shouldn’t encourage car dependency
10 7 More parking, enough that if there is a game on in the field,
others are still able to park.
6 1 Would there be enough parking? How many spots for those
who don’t live within walking distance?
Online Survey
Participants were able to pin comments to
an interactive map on the Town’s website,
and upvote or downvote other comments.
Clicking on the green thumbs up, yellow
neutral, or red thumbs down on the map will
also show the users comment/reasoning for
the positive, neutral, or negative feedback,
in many cases the ‘yes’ is just a confirmation
of their support for that proposed feature.
Question 1 Summary of Results
1. Drop a pin on the design concept to leave your
feedback
• Drop pins on the map to let us know what you
think about the design concept. Help us learn
what features you like or dislike and tell us
what you’d change.
• Let us know if you agree with what others have
suggested by upvoting their comments.
There were 41 people who responded to this
question with 155 people including “up votes” and
58 people including “down votes” on comments
shared by others. Comments are included on the
concept plan at the end of this document.
Question 2 Summary of Results
2. Share your feedback on the draft design
concept.
• Select a category and leave your comments in
the field below.
There were 73 people who responded to this
question with 792 people including “up votes” and
664 people including “down votes” on comments
shared by others. Comments are included on the
concept plan at the end of this document. The
following is a summary of comments received.
Municipality of Clarington | The Planning Partnership
4.
Trail / Walkway
General Comments:
1 0
Don’t build any more. We will have junkies living there plus
drug dealers a new place to dump bodies more graffiti space.
YOU ARE DESTROYED
12 8 Play structure, soccer field, baseball area and splash park.
Washrooms and picnic areas.
4 3 Looks good! Would be cool to have a park app like the valleys
has to encourage recreation as well.
19 1 Would love to see a bicycle/scooter pump track like they have
in Uxbridge
Skating Trail:
1 4
I would like the addition of an ice-skating trail please. There is
one setup 2.5 hours away at Arrowhead Provincial Park, too
far!
4 9 I want to see an ice-skating trail in the park.
9 13 I want to see an ice-skating trail in this area, and a splash pad
for. A place where we can be outdoors. Bowmanville is losing
its charm.
9 16 I would love to see an outdoor skating trail or rink at the old
Bowmanville zoo. It would be a great family recreational activity
for all
1 17 Where on this plan is the ice-skating trail???
1 22 Would like to see refrigerated trail.
0 21 Refrigerated ice skate trail
2 18 An ice-skating trail would be such an amazing attraction for
locals and visitors alike.
29 0 I do not agree with having a skating trail in this park. Too
expensive, very exclusive and the weather does not always
cooperate.
0 22 The ice-skating trail that residents are requesting will be a great
addition to their community
Bowmanville Park Master Plan | Appendix A Public Consultation Detailed Analysis
1 17 Why have you dismissed the overwhelming requests for a re-
frigerated skate trail? Why ask residents what they want when
it is always ignored
1 19 I think the ice-skating trail sounds like a fantastic idea. It’s a
great idea for families to be active, get outdoors & enjoy time
together.
1 16 What happened to having a winter skating trail here? We need
stuff to do in the winter, as well as summer months.
1 17 With our rinks used by hockey and sport I would love to see the
skating trail, as promised for leisure skating in winter.
2 16 I would like to see an ice-skating trail as well within the park.
We have to get families active, outside and together.
1 19 Where is the wonderful outdoor ice-skating trail that was
proposed? Would be lovely in winter & would have many other
uses in warm weather.
2 16 Please add an ice-skating trail to the park. Sounds like an
amazing fun idea.
2 17 Would love to see an ice-skating trail
3 21 Please add a refrigerated ice-skating trail!
3 18 Would love to see a skating trail also!!
0 17 This is very exciting but I would love to see an outdoor skating
trail!
Municipality of Clarington | The Planning Partnership
6.
Playground
12 1 A fully accessible playground would be the first of its kind in the
area, with rubber surface is needed for equality for all
11 2 A pool/ splashpad, ice-skating rink/trail, and tennis/pickleball
courts would be awesome additions if these are not already
part of it
20 0 Please consider needs of adults with disabilities who LOVE
to visit parks especially swings! See Activefit Outdoor Fitness,
Port Perry
22 9 I would love to see a bigger splash park, a skate park perhaps?
We have nothing for our 10-15 year olds to do!
20 0 Have more than one accessible washroom and family wash-
room.
Have accessible playgrounds for children using wheelchairs.
21 0 Please include decent playgrounds, more like the parks in
Whitby. Inclusive/different playground for all ages.
14 8 It would be great to see a basketball court included. One simi-
lar to the court at Tyrone Park would be fantastic.
1 15 Will there be an ice rink at the park?
21 12 A tree zip line would be awesome - like treetop trekking.
A large splash pad would also be super appreciated - we need
more of those
Bowmanville Park Master Plan | Appendix A Public Consultation Detailed Analysis
7.
Washroom Pavil-
ion
4 1 According to zoning, we were told no permanent structures are
to be built on this land. How is it a washroom structure is being
proposed?
8 2 I’m concerned about bathrooms, there only appears to be one.
Maybe another somewhere closer to King or Barley Hill?
8.
Amphitheatre
1 0 Focus on wetland integrity and not an Amphitheatre. This will
offer park visitors the opportunity to experience nature first
hand
3 0 Having the Amphitheatre intact or with any necessary renova-
tions will be another great way to showcase the local creative
arts scene.
18 0 Love that there are gardens and forest areas to preserve wild-
life and green spaces. Amphitheatre a great idea too.
31 0 I would like to see a place for outdoor artists to play music
in the park and a place to have great coffee & hot cinnamon
donuts like Tyrone
9.
Picnic Area
3 0 Most looks great, I see 2 picnic areas but no washrooms in
those areas, is that correct?
10. Demonstra-
tion Gardens
21 0 Beautiful natural setting. Teaching/giving gardens. Raised beds
for seniors & people with physically challenges. Outdoor space
for families.
11. Commemo-
rative Forest
26 14 As an owner of 2 dogs, and being walking distance to this park,
I would love a designated off leash dog area!
12.
Wetland / Wet
Meadow Board-
walk
--
Municipality of Clarington | The Planning Partnership
13.
Multiuse Play
Field
2 3 Will there be a safe area for dogs to run around? Would also
love for there to be plenty of trash cans. And native flowers/
plants!
6 1 Incorporating a full-sized tiled outdoor basketball court more
suitable for teens and adults to play would be incredible.
0 16 Please consider this space for park model low cost affordable
homes for purchase so that people can afford to enter the
housing market.
13 8 Please do not waste money on an ice-skating trail or dog park.
Let’s celebrate our natural heritage and green spaces with this
park.
24 22 Would be nice to Include a bit of a dog park somewhere
25 24 Some sort of off leash dog area would be nice!
18 4 I think something for the winter is a good idea, but a refrigerat-
ed skate trail is very expensive. Still, maybe an outdoor rink?
14.
Wet Meadows
1 0 Looks amazing. Can you consider a fishing pond?? Not many
places for kids to fish for panfish and such. Would be nice to
have a safe spot.
6 5 I think it would be great if low impact development Stormwater
features were used. Also a spot for Indigenous ceremony.
16.
Woodlands
6 4 To keep my children away from the dogs inevitably brought to
this park, I would encourage the city to include a fenced off-
leash area.
11 2 Mountain bike flow track.
1 29 A campground like the one at Beavermead Park in Peterbor-
ough or Victoria Park in Cobourg might be a good idea.
31 0 In general, all trees, shrubs and plants should be native to On-
tario in order to support and conserve our remaining wildlife.
28 23 Is there room for an off-leash dog park somewhere within the
34 acres? That would be a lovely addition to this already beau-
tiful plan.
Bowmanville Park Master Plan | Appendix A Public Consultation Detailed Analysis
17.
Potential Trail
Connection
3 10 https://www.clarington.net/en/news/clarington-unveils-de-
signs-for-the-municipality-s-first-ever-outdoor-refrigerated-skat-
ing-rink.aspx#:~:te
Other Comments 9 0 It would be great to see educational and interactive signage
along the trails. Maybe some permanent exercise equipment to
promote health
0 11 Affordable housing lands is the MAJOR need at the moment for
seniors and young families. Clarington could be a model in this
initiative.
16 0 Not exactly sure what action could be taken but some effort
should be put into protecting the Soper Creek and native fish in
the park!
18 1 Would like to see some youth-oriented infrastructure in the
park, basketball courts, picnic tables, shady areas (umbrellas
possibly), etc.
16 1 More accessible washroom spaces spread out in the park.
24 21 Please keep as many existing trees as possible and make the
park as natural as it can be. No dog parks. Don’t need more
of them
27 1 Will there be dedicated spaces to butterfly sanctuaries and/
or wildflower gardens? Would be nice to see our native plants
given love!
23 0 The old zoo’s splash pad was excellent. If the plumbing is still
intact, why not use it? Bathrooms too!
10 11 Splash pad and ice-skating trail!
21 3 Overall, the park concept is great. I would love to see the com-
munity park reflect some aspect of a zoo theme to recognize
the previous use
1 21 I want to see an ice-skating trail on the former Zoo site
Municipality of Clarington | The Planning Partnership
In-person Workshop Comments
An in-person public workshop was held on
April 16, 2024, where The Planning Partnership
presented the vision and park concept. There
were two 2-hour sessions (one at 3:30pm and
the other at 6:30pm), held at the Municipal
Administrative Centre (Town Hall) in Bowmanville.
There was a total of 20 participants who
then made notes/comments on the concept
plan, organized under the subheadings
of Environment and Ecology, Access and
Circulation, Building and Structures, Play and
Recreation, and Education and Culture.
Environment and Ecology
• Please don’t take down mature trees
• No lighting behind houses
• Butterfly garden?
• Plant natural wild flowers/plants
• Adequate waste containers that are emptied
regularly
• No excessive lighting to protect wildlife
• Cut as few existing trees as possible
• That you for including greenspaces, gardens
and forest
• Keep an organic feel
• Want lots of wild areas – for insect populations
• What happens to the present vegetation
• Attract for birds – over and above existing
wildlife
• Replanting with native flora and trees
• Community garden
• CLOCA? Protected lands?
• What is being done to protect the fish and
wildlife? (Salmon and trout, deer, coyotes)
• Instead of just a stormwater pond is it possible
to introduce a natural pond?
Access and Circulation
• Wet area let grow in
• Mixed use can produce “conflicts” e.g. cyclists
vs pedestrians
• No issues with access and circulation – good
job with concept design
• Love idea of wooden pedestrian bridges
• Limit the amount of parking to the circle of
green
• Security? /Squatters?
• Walkway entrance over king st
• Parking Fees!
• Free Parking Please
• Will the visitor welcome centre be manned? If
so, will it be manned by volunteers?
• Great plan for trails for walking, biking
• Mearns traffic is already VERY bust
• Impact on Mearns residences on our property,
we were told we could not build because of
flood zone
Building and Structures
• Take out this part of path, avoids cutting trees
+ place here instead – already cleared
• Minimal structures and buildings
• Thank you for washroom building and visiting
welcome centre
• Keep buildings looking ‘natural’ and not
modern and shiny (no primary colours)
• Like references to zoo and installations
referring to. Like idea of wooden structures for
play – which allows all age groups to use
• Amphitheatre – great idea – keep it. #8 love
and outdoor classroom
• Love board walks
Bowmanville Park Master Plan | Appendix A Public Consultation Detailed Analysis
• Amphitheatre acoustics? Tree surrounded?
Private? Great idea
• How many storeys?
• Cost of maintenance?
• Lighting for pathways
• Designated parking/ no parking on side streets
and Mearns Ave.
• Has the original bridge over the creek been
retained?
• What are the CLOCA rules for structures?
• Washroom location – why not by parking? –
how is waste going to be dealt with in flood
situation?
Play and Recreation
• Can we consider another dog park in these
plans. The current dog park near the marina
has become too small for the population as
well, the overhead hydro lines shock people
and dogs
• Creative play structure
• Natural ‘work-out’ station – you can stop + do
chin ups, etc.
• NO dog parks
• NO refrigerated ice skating trail – waste of
money – climate change
• Greensward – where informal games/sports/
play can occur #13
• Park benches for relaxing
• Exercise stations build along major paths
• Use pond for skating
• Permits for park use?
• Bike park i.e. bmx – bump track?
• More things for children to play with “pump
park”
• Intent of Amphitheatre? Noise? Time of use?
• Remove bike lane on Mearns to encourage use
of the trails
• Privacy fence - Mearns
Education and Culture
• You mentioned Indigenous place keeping,
what are the plans? Some sort of land
acknowledgement
• Provide power in amphitheater on pavilion for
education presentations, public events
• Love the amphitheater idea (multi use space)
• Add zoo history plaques – with old photos of
zoo and brief history
• Keep park as a natural space – a space that
celebrates green area and Bowmanville’s
natural spaces
• Organic, minimalist natural colours and
materials
• Skating parks
• Seasonal?
• Bike/walk trails – stops
• Splash pads
• High Park model
• Amphitheatre
• Gravel vs asphalt
• BBQ
• Cost for educational purposes/ schools
• What historic features of the original zoo
have been retained? If not, more needs to
incorporated
• Have indigenous considerations been
consulted?
• include a sculpture/representation of the
elephant
Municipality of Clarington | The Planning Partnership