The City of Maple Ridge, looking for land to put new recreation facilities, devised a controversial plan to redevelop the Maple Ridge Golf Course and Hammond Park.
The city’s plans call for a new aquatic centre and community hall to replace the Hammond Outdoor Pool. But the demands for land on the site to make such a facility possible meant relocating one of the ball fields.
Looking around the community at lands it owns, city council settled on 40 acres along the Fraser River that is the longtime home of Maple Ridge Golf Course.
According to the city, the site could accommodate spectator ball fields, new pickleball courts, tennis courts, disc golf, basketball, a cricket pitch, skateboard facilities, walking paths, and numerous other amenities.
It would become part of the cities largest-ever investment in recreation infrastructure, announced Mayor Dan Ruimy, which he added, would also include the addition of two new arenas at the Planet Ice facility.
Ruimy said in April that he had walked the current golf site, and found it “a special site,” and perfect for fields and parkland.
“We need more facilities – play spaces and recreation spaces,” he added.
However, the plan is vehemently opposed by golfers who say the little course is an affordable gem that is much loved by seniors – and beginner and intermediate duffers.
There have been numerous letters to the editor to the local news about this decision.
“This is a travesty of our history as it is 100 years old this year. This golf course is used all year for many residents and visitors both young and old and in between for a reasonable cost. It is challenging and a beautiful setting for this use,” said Alice Sanderson.
“Maple Ridge Golf Course is more than just a place to swing a club,” said Hank Vandenykel. “It’s a lush, park-like setting teeming with trees, wildlife, and generations of memories. The land was donated over a century ago by one of our town’s founding residents, John McIver, and the golf course was built by volunteers for all residents to enjoy. It generates an income for the City of Maple Ridge, while being an affordable place for people of all ages to enjoy, specifically our elderly.”
In late December the city announced it was moving ahead with the recreation plans, despite opposition by golfers and people who live near the course.
Ruimy said the site could be like Rocky Point in Port Moody, where the city hosts festivals and there is bandstand area.
“That is, for all intents and purposes, our Rocky Point,” said Ruimy. “That’s the vision. You can have the sports fields, but it’s much more than that. It’s a community place where people can gather and have picnics.”
The projects will be headed for a schematic design process.
Staff has been told to fund the projects with an aim to minimize the impact on taxpayers. That means securing potential funds from senior government grants, corporate sponsorships or partnerships, city reserves, and borrowing.