Darwin Pivot holds 'Your Voice, Your Fairgrounds Interactive Open House and Workshop' at Scugog Council Chambers

BRANDON CLARK The Standard

SCUGOG: On Wednesday, May 13th, Darwin Pivot J.L Richards & Associates visited Scugog Council Chambers in Port Perry to hold a 'Your Voice, Your Fairgrounds' interactive open house and workshop for attendees. The day was broken into three sessions: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., 1:30 to 3:30 p.m., and 6 to 8 p.m.

Attendees were given packets which contained concepts for the fairgrounds' future. The packet also includes spaces for attendees to write down feedback they want to share with Darwin Pivot.

Concept 1A went over reinforcing the existing site. Most present uses remain in their current locations. The intent is to reinforce the existing site by improving its function and supporting more consistent use throughout the year.

Concept 1B went over Enhancing Circulation and Open Space. The track is replaced with more green space and an urban forest park area. The area beside the residential neighbourhood is transformed into a community park. The former infield of the track includes the fair's recreation grounds. The intent is to create more well-defined spaces supporting a broader range of uses throughout the year. A neighbourhood park, track, terrace seating, and community seating are not included in this concept.

Concept 1C went over Expanding Facilities and Use Area. It is primarily the same as Concept 1B, except the recreation grounds remain for the fair and other uses. It is not limited to the former infield of the track.

The Round 2 Community Workshops and Open House were well attended and provided residents with an opportunity to review and discuss a series of conceptual options for the future of the Port Perry Fairgrounds. The concepts were intentionally flexible and high-level, designed to help illustrate the array of community inputs received in round 1.

Participants shared feedback on what elements, amenities, and ideas resonated most with them, as well as the opportunities and trade-offs associated with different approaches to the site. Initial concepts can be found at my.scugog.ca.

The next steps in the timeline are drafting and completing the final visioning report/concept plan during May-June. A final report and presentation for consideration of the property's vision selection will take place in mid-June. The visioning exercise is only the beginning step toward a future revitalization that will provide balanced use of the land year-round.