Pickleball facilities in Royal Bay: As construction progresses on Quarry Park in the Latoria South neighbourhood of Royal Bay, the Colwood City is actively considering plans to enhance this new public recreation space. Local officials are exploring the addition of essential pickleball facilities, including much-needed courts for pickleball, a sport that has gained popularity across the community.
Significant Investment for Community Infrastructure
“Quarry Park expansion represents a significant investment in community infrastructure, with a total estimated cost of $9,675,783.” stated Matt Blakely, senior planner, during the Parks, Trails and Recreation Committee meeting on October 7.
If endorsed by the council, these expansion plans could increase the park’s size from 11.2 acres to nearly 16 acres. However, this ambitious proposal relies on the city successfully acquiring two parcels of land adjacent to Quarry Park, an effort currently underway by council staff.
Current Development Progress
Phase one of Quarry Park, located adjacent to a site designated for a new elementary school, is set to include a bike park, a pedestrian plaza, and a playground. The completion of these facilities is expected by spring 2025. Committee member Carol Brown expressed enthusiasm for the park’s potential, stating,
“What an amazing park. The connectivity and opportunity for community recreation – it’s going to be quite an opportunity.” – (Carol Brown)
The Push for Pickleball and Tennis Courts
While committee members supported the park’s initial plans, a critical point of discussion emerged regarding the inclusion of facilities for sports like pickleball and tennis. Kimberleigh Doyle showed the urgency for these recreational options, highlighting the current gap in offerings for local residents.
“The opportunity is here and now to put something in that can keep people in their community, rather than jumping in their car … going all the way to West Shore Rec Centre.” – (Kimberleigh Doyle)
“It just seems like a real miss to leave that out when tennis and pickeball are sports people can play … from a young child, all the way up.” – (Kimberleigh Doyle)
Addressing Community Needs with Inclusivity
As the discussion started, the need for an off-leash dog park also surfaced. Initially part of the Quarry Park pickleball proposal, the dog park concept was set aside due to lukewarm community feedback during engagement surveys. Carol Brown pointed out the growing population of dog owners in Royal Bay, stating,
“Royal Bay is growing and a lot of people are going to use this park for passive recreation – walking their dog. I know there are a lot of dogs in Royal Bay and there are going to be more. We don’t have in this area an off-leash dog park.” – (Carol Brown)
In a consensus, committee members recommended that the council endorse the expansion plans but instructed staff to revise them to include pickleball and tennis courts, along with the proposed off-leash dog park. If endorsed, council staff will move forward to draft an implementation and funding timeline.
News in Brief: Pickleball Facilities in Royal Bay
Construction is underway for Quarry Park in Latoria South, Royal Bay, with proposals for expansion to include pickleball and tennis courts. The estimated expansion cost is $9.7 million, which would increase the park’s size from 11.2 to nearly 16 acres.
While some pickleball facilities are currently planned, committee members are demanding for the inclusion of more sports options. Additionally, there are calls for an off-leash dog park, highlighting the community’s diverse recreational needs. The council will consider these recommendations in the near future.
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