Editor:
Why isn’t there community consultation on the need and placement of playgrounds in Canmore?
In January of this year, I was surprised to learn that the Town of Canmore was building an additional two playgrounds in Spring Creek Mountain Village for a total of 35 in Canmore – one just 25 feet from my condo deck and the other around the corner with the Town of Canmore’s funds.
I have been residing in my condo since taking possession in March 2023. My neighbouring condo residents were also surprised. Spring Creek Mountain Village did not advise a number of buyers at the time of purchase of the playgrounds, nor did the Town of Canmore consult the residents of the decision to place the playgrounds in close proximity.
The land was part of the developer’s requirement for the town. The Town’s acting manager of the planning and development department was requested to locate the playgrounds further than 25 feet from adjacent residences. To date, he replied other locations would not be suitable. Given the limitations, why build the playgrounds? What is the motive? Why do we need another two playgrounds when down the road, there’s a playground and another larger playground just another two blocks away located in Centennial Park.
Spring Creek Mountain Village will have three playgrounds, all owned and maintained by the Town of Canmore.
Did you know the Town of Canmore has currently 33 playgrounds for an average of 62 children (ages 0-14) for each playground, according to the 2021 census? With 35 playgrounds, the average is reduced to 58. The City of Calgary is considered overproviding traditional playgrounds with one playground for every 209 children. The national average is one playground for every 351.
What would you do if you were not advised at the time of condo purchase and not consulted on a playground immediately adjacent, less than 25 ft, to your residence?
Stephanie HoLem,
Canmore
