Township Launches Parks and Recreation Plan

CENTRE WELLINGTON – Parks and recreation are essential to everyday life in Centre Wellington and play a significant role in community building through the facilitation of active and passive activities and the strengthening of neighbourhood connections.  Planning is critical.  As the Township grows, and changes, the interests of our residents need to reflect the overall vision, direction, and guidance when making decisions about parks, recreation, programs, services, and facilities.  This is why the Township of Centre Wellington is excited to embark on the development of several key strategic Parks and Recreation Plans. 

1. Parks & Recreation Needs Assessment
2. Parks Plan 
3. Parks and Recreation Plan 
4. Indoor Multi-Use Recreation Facility Feasibility Study 

The results will provide a roadmap that will enhance and grow the Township’s parks and recreation facilities and services and events for residents, user groups, and visitors now and into the future.  These plans will guide decision-making across all aspects of parks and recreation, from playgrounds to programs and everything in between.

The consulting team, led by MGA- McQueen Galloway Associates has been retained by the Township to complete all phases of this project. MGA understands communities like the Township of Centre Wellington and the complexity of balancing community needs across the entire Township. Key components of the planning process include: 

• Evaluating existing parks, open spaces, amenities, and recreational facilities for condition, accessibility, design, and capacity. 
• Identifying future needs for all types of recreational spaces based on growth and trend profiles. 

"Launching the Parks & Recreation Plan marks a pivotal moment for our community,” said Mayor Watters.  “This plan is a blueprint for enhancing our parks, expanding recreational opportunities, and creating vibrant, inclusive spaces for all residents to enjoy. It reflects our commitment to fostering a healthy, active lifestyle and ensuring that everyone in our community has access to top-quality recreational facilities. I am excited to see how this plan will transform our public spaces and contribute to the well-being of our citizens."

Community engagement will play a vital role in informing the direction of the plan(s). A multi-phase consultation process will be implemented that includes key informant interviews, sessions with community user groups, staff interviews, a statistical online survey, youth engagement, and an in-person workshop for residents across the Township. 

Information about this project is available at www.connectcw.ca.