Brock seeks community input on new MacLeod Park concept plans

DARRYL KNIGHT The Standard

BROCK: At a recent Committee of the Whole meeting, the Township of Brock presented two new concept plans for MacLeod Park, in Cannington, inviting residents to share feedback on the designs by November 11th.

MacLeod Park is a 16-hectare community space in the heart of Cannington, along the Beaver River and Trans Canada Trail, is a central hub for recreational and cultural activities. Community members can submit their preferred design and priorities to recreation@brock.ca.

“Once finalized, we will have a vision for MacLeod Park. It was encouraging, we had a great turnout for a recent open house regarding this project,” commented Mayor Walter Schummer. “Like so many of our plans and projects, it may take some time but at least we'll know what we're aiming to do. After final adoption, the costing and planning, on phasing in of the elements of the design, [will need to be done.]”

The proposed concepts aim to enhance MacLeod Park, by building on the foundational elements of a 2014 design, crafted by a University of Guelph Landscape Architecture student. This vision was updated in the 2023 Parks, Recreation & Culture Master Plan. It provides a framework for maintaining and improving parks, trails, and recreational amenities, across Brock, over the next decade.

Key priorities include: additional pickleball courts, building upon an initial court planned for the existing skatepark pad; upgrades to tennis courts, washrooms, and drinking water fountains. Other new priorities are: pedestrian-scale walkway lighting, accessible pathways, AODA-compliant features, a paved walking track, winterized washrooms and new trees to enhance park accessibility and sustainability.

Concept 1 emphasizes essential recreational amenities, like multipurpose sports courts, playgrounds, and ample seating. Accessibility is prioritized with pathways on both sides of the Beaver River, and many existing features, including courts and asphalt pads, will be revitalized for a welcoming, inclusive park experience.

Concept 2 introduces a hub-oriented design, blending active recreation zones with open green spaces for passive enjoyment. This design reduces parking to preserve green space, positions the ball diamond centrally, and creates a defined park gateway and picnic area, enhancing social gathering spaces.

Both designs include accessible playgrounds; a splash pad; a pump track; sports fields; courts for basketball, tennis, and pickleball; dog parks and pedestrian lighting.

Brock residents are encouraged to review these designs and voice their preferences, by emailing the Township before the November 11th deadline. Feedback will guide the development of MacLeod Park, aligning it with community values and enhancing this beloved space for future generations.