Public consultations were held in Champlain Township to garner the public’s perspective on the new Parks and Recreation Master Plan (PRMP) for the community. The initiative aims to create a comprehensive plan for the future management of public spaces and will be used to align with community interests and requirements.
The first immersive session was held at the Vankleek Hill Community Hall on October 16, and the second at the Prescott-Russell Council Chambers in L’Orignal on October 17.
Champlain Township’s PRMP will encompass future development and management of the Township’s parks, recreational facilities, programs, and overall services for the next 10-15 years. Key community priorities identified through in-person and online public consultations will inform the PRMP’s development and ensure it reflects the community’s wants and needs.
Champlain Township hired the bilingual firm Cultural Spaces from Ottawa to host the consultations to generate more interest and have the public actively involved in decision-making.
Instead of the typical group discussion in a seated area, three booths were dedicated to the Township’s main parks, facilities, and other parks. Each booth had a Cultural Spaces representative to answer questions and guide community members on how to contribute to the larger PRMP.
Some of the suggestions from community members included creating a pickleball league, a boat launch at L’Orignal, dealing with concerns surrounding swimmers’ safety at L’Orignal Beach, improvements to bike trail maintenance, and additional seating options for picnics.
Director of Parks and Recreation Sydney Collard stated that “this format allows for more personalized discussions and ensures that residents can focus on the topics that matter most to them.”
The online public survey to gather additional responses will be open from October 16 to October 30 and can be found on the Township’s dedicated PRMP webpage: https://www.champlain.ca/en/recreation-and-leisure/parks-and-recreation-master-plan.aspx.
A draft master plan is planned to be delivered to council in November, with final plans being received and published on Champlain’s website in December.
More information can be provided by contacting Collard at 613-678-3003 or visiting the above website.
