Qualicum Beach Pickleball Court Conversion: Qualicum Beach council is considering converting the third tennis court on Veteran’s Way into four pickleball courts. The decision was discussed at the council’s regular meeting on September 17, as officials reviewed rising costs and potential impacts on nearby pathways and access roads.
Cost Concerns and Funding
Councillor Anne Skipsey told council that the cost to build new pickleball courts near the Qualicum Beach Skatepark has doubled from the 2024 estimate of $170,000 to an estimated $351,000 or more. Council has already allocated $87,000, contingent on the Qualicum Beach Pickleball Club raising a matching amount. Casey Skipsey noted staff recommended adding more funds, but an alternative plan is being explored.
The club has raised between $62,000 and $65,000, which could cover the conversion cost. Mayor Teunis Westbroek expects the club to contribute fully to the project.
Site Considerations
Skipsey and Mayor Teunis Westbroek met with two members of the Qualicum Beach Pickleball Club at the tennis courts to assess the possibility. Westbroek said converting one tennis court into four pickleball courts makes sense, especially since the property could be used for long-term housing in the future.
“I think this is a reasonable compromise, because clearing the site also has complications,” (Teunis Westbroek).
The project may require removing the new skatepark pathway or adjusting the access road to accommodate the pickleball courts.
Council Discussions and Concerns
Councillor Petronella Vander Valk raised concerns about noise affecting nearby residents. Westbroek said the club has held events without complaints, adding,
“I don’t feel it would be an issue.”
Councillor Scott Harrison supports designated pickleball courts and believes the club’s fundraising makes the project a good investment. He said,
“I’d rather see that project done in a couple of years… what we’re really voting on is to refer to strategic planning and nothing else.”
Skipsey’s motion to have staff study the feasibility of converting the third tennis court and adjacent space into four pickleball courts was unanimously approved by council.
News in Brief: Qualicum Beach Pickleball Court Conversion
Qualicum Beach council is considering converting one tennis court on Veteran’s Way into four pickleball courts. Rising costs are a concern, with estimates now at $351,000. The Qualicum Beach Pickleball Club has raised $62,000–$65,000. Council unanimously approved a motion to study the project’s feasibility during strategic planning.
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