It's back to the drawing board for upgrades to Loudon Park, to try and find a solution which works for local park users and paddlers. (File photo/NanaimoNewsNOW)

By Alex Rawnsley

more information needed

‘Meet the needs of everyone:’ Nanaimo Council sends Loudon Park project for staff review

May 28, 2025 | 5:29 AM

NANAIMO — Despite years of consultation, design and debate, it will be some time yet before the future of a lakefront park is decided.

After approving an $11 million upgrade to Loudon Park in April, only to rescind approval a month later, City Councillors have now opted to refer the matter back to staff for more refinement of designs and a clearer path forward.

Speaking at the Monday, May 26 City Council meeting, Coun. Ben Geselbrecht said it’s important they take the time to plan and complete the project well, and in a way which meets the needs of all user groups.

“I think Loudon Park is a very special place. It’s highly used, and I think that there’s an opportunity to upgrade in a way, with amenities that the functionality will be very similar, potentially to Option A depending on how it’s being done, but I think that we can do it in a way that will meet the needs of everyone.”

At the heart of the debate is a planned new boathouse, indoor public space and accessible washrooms at the park.

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Council originally narrowly supported an expansive building which would have taken over a majority of the park’s square footage.

Public backlash, including a rally at the park and strong showings at subsequent meetings, saw Council backtrack and reconsider their direction.

Mayor Leonard Krog said he hopes the pending report from staff will clear the waters on the project’s future.

“So the public will understand completely why various other plans have had to be changed or adjusted, whether to be set back from the high water mark…[or] why it is not necessarily reasonable to believe that some trees are not going to come down to build the kind of facility we need.”

He echoed other Councillors by saying whatever is built needs to meet the needs of not just “happy summer swimmers or walkers in the neighborhood, but for all of the people…who utilize this park year round.”

A strong turnout for a weekend rally at Loudon Park included a roped off area of the park, which represented the size of the proposed building of the then-approved facility. (File photo/NanaimoNewsNOW)

Prior to their decision, Council heard from both sides of the debate.

Those wanting a purpose-built facility included Denise Winter, a board member with the Nanaimo Canoe and Kayak Club who said their membership and growth of paddle sports locally is being hindered by inadequate facilities.

“We need more than a shed for boats. We need warm indoor space, a place where youth athletes can dry land train during the winter months, and recreational paddlers can gather extending their season beyond the summer. This would allow us to offer more consistent programming, build community year round and provide safer, more supportive conditions for everyone involved.”

Danielea Castell spoke on behalf of the Save Loudon Park campaign, who had repeatedly stated they’re not opposed to upgrades at the park, but want it in a way which doesn’t destroy the natural environment.

“The recent surge in public engagement, as evidenced by the 1,900 petition signatures, confirms that Loudon Park is extremely important to the public, and we believe that with thoughtful upgrades that honour the land and include all users, it can continue as a refuge and grow into a thriving hub for water sports and wellness.”

Council voted to send the matter back to staff by an 8-1 vote.

Coun. Janice Perrino was the lone vote against, saying she understood the need for more information from staff, but her support for the previously approved option remained.

“I am for Option A or Option One for the larger facility, that includes not only the boat house, as well as the larger facility, to be able to serve the community year round and and a variety of community players. I understand that is not necessarily what everyone wants in this community, but that’s where my vote will be.”

Staff will return to Council, likely in the fall, with a report outlining refined options and designs for consideration.

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