Pickering has launched its second round of public consultation for the Waterfront and Nautical Village project on LetsTalkPickering.ca, the city’s new community engagement platform.
As the city continues with the long-term planning and vision for its waterfront and Nautical Village, the public is invited to provide feedback on personal experiences, hopes, and ideas on how the community can enjoy, enhance, and protect the waterfront for generations to come, said a statement.
The public survey is available until November 30, 2021.
Community feedback will be reviewed and considered by council and staff for future planning studies and waterfront initiatives.
The statement said Pickering is experiencing significant growth and it is important that it continuously evolve and adapt to the needs of the community.
Nautical Village
This round of public engagement will look at the Nautical Village area, located within the larger Liverpool Road Waterfront Node (see map below). The Nautical Village Area, shown in yellow on the map, is unique in its mix of work-live uses and influenced by boating tourism and activity around the marina.
The nature of the Village is designed to maintain a pedestrian friendly environment and view corridors to Lake Ontario.
Community Engagement #1: Summary
Following the initial Waterfront and Nautical Village Community Engagement, key points from respondents were:
- Most enjoy the waterfront by using the trails, spending time at the beach, and viewing nature;
- Most agree that the Nautical Village currently reflects the vision of being a unique waterfront community influenced by the nautical theme and having pedestrian friendly spaces. Responses also supported having more businesses that support recreation uses and attract tourism, and allowing vendors and concession stands along the beach;
- Although many are satisfied with many of the waterfront amenities such as the trails and public spaces, improvements for parking, restroom facilities and safe bikeways were frequently mentioned;
- As the waterfront continues to evolve and be impacted by environment matters, most believe impacts from developments/human activity is the most significant, as well as road congestion and the water quality of Lake Ontario; and
- Many believe Pickering’s waterfront is somewhat weak or weak as a tourist destination. Responses offered a wide range of suggestions and ideas for improved and new amenities/facilities, activities or events to better enhance the enjoyment of the waterfront or promote more visitors, such as shuttle bus service from the Pickering GO Station or Pickering Town Centre; facilities and rentals for water sports and other recreational activities; connection of the east and west spit; and improving public parking, trail conditions, and littering.
