​Neighbours object but indoor sports facility no longer proposed for Kin-Bruce Park

Several neighbours of Kin-Bruce Park in Huron-Kinloss Township, came to the committee-of-the-whole meeting, April 7, urging council not to allow the proposed indoor sports facility in the park, and to make improvements to this community green space.

Council acknowledged their concerns, but pointed out that the proponent, Brandon Kushnir of Bluewater Sports Management, has since withdrawn his request to develop the facility on municipal property.

In an E-mail to council, dated April 2, Kushnir thanks the township for considering a potential lease agreement for the park land. However, following additional due diligence and in light of the evolving needs of the project, particularly the necessary of land acquisition, the decision was made to formally withdraw the request for a lease agreement with the township.

“That said, our commitment to bringing this facility to Huron-Kinloss remains unchanged,” states Kushnir. “We are currently working toward a purchase agreement for privately-owned land in Huron-Kinloss and look forward to continuing a positive working relationship with council to realize this vision for the community.”

In the first delegation, neighbours made a presentation about re-purposing the park.

They raised concerns about any potential redevelopment into a multi-sport facility, citing such issues as noise and light pollution, traffic, impaired views, and decreased property values. They emphasized their desire for Kin-Bruce Park to remain a local neighbourhood park.

The second presentation, given by current and former residents, provided an historical overview of the park, noting its deterioration over the past 50 years and the lack of investment in improvements. The residents highlighted the need for revitalization, particularly in light of population growth and increased development in the area.

Concerns were also raised about inaccuracies in the parkland calculations contained in the consultant’s report. Staff confirmed there was an error and will bring corrected figures back to council in a report.

Residents expressed a willingness to work collaboratively with the township to improve the park and address broader parkland needs in the community.



Aerial view of Kin-Bruce Park, located along Lake Range Drive, north of McCormick Drive, in Huron-Kinloss Township



Kin-Bruce Park in Huron-Kinloss Township