North Saanich is exploring new uses for the Wain Park pickleball courts, which were closed last May due to noise complaints. During a council meeting on Monday, councilors voted 4-2 to direct staff to assess the costs of installing permanent basketball hoops and covered picnic tables at the site.
The decision follows a previous request from the council for alternative options. Staff suggested various ideas, including shaded seating, portable hockey nets, a kids’ cycling area, outdoor games like chess and checkers, and fitness or yoga classes. The courts are located next to a field and across from Birch Road, where several residences are situated.
Differing Opinions on Court Repurposing
Coun. Jack McClintock, who previously attempted to discuss reopening the courts, expressed skepticism about the proposed changes.
“In my 10 years on council, I have never had any resident approach me to say that they wanted picnic tables on a hot asphalt surface surrounded by a 10-foot chain-length fence.” – (McClintock)
He also pointed out that existing basketball hoops outside the courts see little use. Brad Watson, president of the Saanich Peninsula Pickleball Association, criticized the decision, calling it “incredibly foolish.” He questioned why council would push for alternative uses before the Peninsula Recreation Commission releases its needs report, expected in the coming months.
Concerns Over Noise and Community Support
Watson also raised concerns that basketball could generate even more noise than pickleball. He cited measurements taken at Oak Bay’s Carnarvon Park, where basketball was recorded at 10 decibels louder than pickleball.
“So I don’t think those neighbours will be very happy with the bouncing basketball and then shooting the ball off the backboard and the yelling and screaming, it will be much higher than the game of pickleball.” – (Watson)
Mayor Peter Jones, however, stated that he has spoken with 25 households within 600 meters of the courts and found support for basketball hoops and picnic tables. He added that residents have expressed interest in more outdoor seating through the district’s ongoing parks planning process. Jones also noted that the court surface would likely be changed to reduce heat retention.
Future of Pickleball in North Saanich
Meanwhile, council received a staff report on a potential new pickleball facility at Blue Heron Park. Residents within 600 meters of the proposed site were surveyed, and 54% opposed further development of the concept.
With the Peninsula Recreation Commission’s report expected soon, decisions on future pickleball facilities remain uncertain. The debate highlights the challenge of balancing recreation options while addressing noise concerns from nearby residents.
News in Brief: Wain Park Pickleball Courts
North Saanich council voted to explore adding basketball hoops and picnic tables to the closed Wain Park pickleball courts. The move, aimed at repurposing the space, has drawn criticism from pickleball advocates. A separate study on recreation needs is expected soon, which could influence future decisions.
