Pickleball Complex Sparks Controversy: A citizens’ group called Friends of Bonnerworth Park has spent nearly a year fighting against a $4.1 million redevelopment plan for Peterborough’s Bonnerworth Park. This plan includes the construction of a 14-court pickleball complex, a bike pump track, and an associated parking lot. As 2024 comes to a close, the group remains active, seeking to influence how the park will look and feel after redevelopment.
Community Concerns and Mayor’s Support
The Friends of Bonnerworth Park have expressed concerns over losing green space in the community. Despite this, Mayor Leal supports the redevelopment, citing a 2018 city analysis that identified a growing need for pickleball courts.
“Pickleball was coming on the scene, and they determined there was going to be a need for pickleball courts.” – (leal)
He mentioned that similar projects have been undertaken in the past to meet the recreational needs of Peterborough residents.
The mayor also highlighted a companion project at Knights of Columbus Park, which will add new tennis courts, enhance facilities for lacrosse and ball hockey, and replace an old wading pool with a new splash pad.
Best Site for Pickleball Courts
While two ball diamonds will be removed in the redevelopment, Mayor Leal argues they were not suitable for adult play due to their proximity to busy streets. This decision has not been well-received by some community members, who feel the park’s natural environment should be preserved.
Friends of Bonnerworth Park are considering several options for their next steps. These include potential legal action and efforts to have a say in the park’s design.
Advocacy and Impact
The group’s fight has caught the attention of various communities across Canada and the U.S.
“People are telling their stories about living next door or close to pickleball courts and the effect on their quality of life, their everyday use of their home, and their mental health.” – (Gerelus)
He noted that some have won lawsuits to close problematic courts, emphasizing the lack of municipal guidelines for pickleball court placement. The outcome of this battle could set an example for future park developments in Peterborough and beyond.
The Friends of Bonnerworth Park hope their advocacy will lead to better regulations and community input in urban planning. The citizens’ group continues to be a voice for preserving green spaces and ensuring that recreational facilities meet the needs of all residents.
News in Brief: Pickleball Complex Sparks Controversy
The Friends of Bonnerworth Park are challenging a $4.1 million redevelopment plan for Peterborough’s Bonnerworth Park, which includes a 14-court pickleball complex and a bike pump track. The group is concerned about losing green space, while Mayor Leal supports the project, citing a growing need for pickleball facilities.
As the group considers legal action and advocacy efforts, their fight highlights the importance of community input in urban planning and the placement of recreational facilities.
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