A new playground in Sapperton Park has yet to be designed, but it’s envisioned to be a place where families can connect with nature and to be a destination for the growing neighbourhood.
The city has been consulting with the community about plans to upgrade the playground and spray park in Sapperton Park, which the city says has reached the point where complete replacement is necessary. The city’s five-year capital plan includes $70,000 for planning and design in 2015, and $580,000 for construction in 2016.
The city recently held an open house to gather feedback from the community about things they’d like to see included in playground and spray park. More open houses are planned regarding the project.
Council chamber still off limits
New Westminster city council’s roadshow will last a little longer than anticipated.
Council has been holding meetings at various venues in the city for the past month, as renovations are currently underway to the council chamber in city hall. While it was anticipated council would return to its permanent home this month, council has approved a staff recommendation to hold its November meetings at Anvil Centre.
“Staff has been advised that there will be a two to three week delay in the completion of the millwork,” stated a report from chief administrative officer Lisa Spitale. “When the millwork is in place, the audio-visual contractor will be able to install the equipment, and then test the system.”
According to staff, it’s now anticipated the work will be completed by Nov. 20.
Industrial building planned
A caretaker will provide “eyes on the street” during the non-operating hours of a proposed industrial building.
The city has received a development permit application that would allow a three-storey industrial building to be built at 520 21st St. The plan would include a two-bedroom accessory residential unit so a caretaker could live on site.
“A caretaker can be considered beneficial to the successful operation of a business,” stated a staff report. “In this instance, due to the isolated area of the subject site coupled with the applicant’s financial investment in the operation, a caretaker could prove beneficial by providing eyes on the street during non-operational hours. This would also be beneficial for the subject site’s surrounding neighbours.”
Along with steel manufacturing, the space would also include a showroom and offices. A public hearing on the zoning bylaw text amendment allowing the project to proceed will be held on Monday, Oct. 26 at 6 p.m. in Anvil Centre.
Sessions hit the mark
The City of New Westminster may make information sessions about city grants an annual affair.
The city recently held a workshop for groups applying for city grants or wanting to hold special events or festivals in New West. Staff report that about 50 people attended a session to learn more about applying for a city grant, while about 30 people were at the session about organizing events in the city.
Council has directed staff to host workshop sessions each year with the community about the programs.
