To the editor,
It’s very distressing to watch the council approve the larger building at Loudon Park.
The park is small and to put such a large building in there will destroy the integrity of the park. The most distressing and really awful thing is that so many beautiful old trees that make up the essence of this small park will be ripped out to make room for a building that will house boats. And for only a very small portion of Nanaimo’s population. I get that there will be washrooms and a meeting area but that could be done in a smaller building that won’t break the bank.
I am also incredulous that council would approve the huge price tag of $11 million, a good piece of which will come from the reserve fund.
When I drive around town and see all the roads that need paving and city work that needs to be done I am frankly shocked that council would approve this building.
I understand that the rowers need a place to store their boats, but they do not need something so large and costly at the expense of nature and the city’s reserve bank account.
Susan Sheldon, Nanaimo
READ ALSO: Community members oppose scale of planned boathouse at Long Lake in Nanaimo
To the editor,
I thank the mayor and council for their time regarding the proposed development of Loudon Park at Long Lake. However, this expansion needs reconsideration.
Why should the city build a 10,000-square-foot building for private clubs that costs $11 million? The project should be scaled back to $6 million.
It is crucial to preserve the integrity and original purpose of this cherished land. The serene environment and recreational spaces are meant to provide a haven for all residents. The late Bill Loudon gifted this land for Wellington residents to enjoy. He never intended it to be taken over by private kayaking and rowing clubs.
The park is small, and this development would not serve the community. Having grown up at the lake, it is heartbreaking to imagine Bill Loudon’s vision being destroyed.
Please take this back to the table for a win-win for both the clubs and the residents.
Vicki Lerch (nee Veillette), Nanaimo
The views and opinions expressed in this letter to the editor are those of the writer and do not reflect the views of Black Press Media or the Nanaimo News Bulletin.
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