The location of a proposed skate park in Drayton remains uncertain.
After an extensive review process, on April 22 council approved locating the facility on the parking lot off John Street at Kinsmen Park.
However, on May 13 council agreed to review the decision, after realizing a skate park on the site, which drew objections from numerous neighbouring residents, would also take up most of the parking lot.
Council and staff have since considered two potential sites around the ball diamond at the park and have also revisited a Riverside Park location.
At the June 10 meeting, CAO Patty Sinnamon reported on a meeting with Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA) officials at the Riverside Park soccer fields.
“They have no problem with a skate park going in there,” said Sinnamon.
But she added the GRCA’s biggest concern is the distance between the proposed structure and the wetlands.
Councillor Jim Curry spoke in favour of the ball diamond site.
“Our number one choice is still the outfield just beyond the fence. If we were to put it at Riverside Park, I think we’re probably closer to residences there than at our number one choice,” said Curry, adding Mapleton’s fire chief is “quite concerned about the safety of that site at Riverside.”
Curry pointed out that once skateboarders cross the bridge heading north from Drayton, there are no sidewalks and there is a steep ditch and more traffic with which to contend.
Councillor Neil Driscoll said he felt the Riverside Park location would be preferable in terms of visibility.
Sinnamon noted if a decision is not made very soon, it will be impossible to meet the next deadline to apply for funding from the Trillium Foundation to assist with the project.
The Drayton Skatepark Committee is planning to apply for a Trillium grant for half the estimated project cost of $100,000.
“I’m a little concerned we won’t be able to meet the July deadline,” said Sinnamon.
Mayor Bruce Whale said, “If we get pushed back to September, let’s make sure we get this in the right place. That’s the important thing.”
