Background – Why a Recreation Master Plan?
A Recreation Master Plan is a valuable tool for decision-makers, stakeholders, and the public in understanding a municipality's residents' recreational requirements and preferences.
This comprehensive plan encompasses outdoor recreational amenities, indoor recreation facilities, and recreation programs and services.
By conducting thorough research and incorporating public input, a Recreation Master Plan will assess the current service levels in all communities throughout the County and establish priorities for the coming years. Recommendations will address community needs, population changes, trends in participation, service gaps, and operational requirements. A diverse range of strategies are necessary to ensure that the appropriate facilities are in the right locations at the right time.
In 2015, Norfolk County Council identified the need for and approved the completion of a 20-year comprehensive Parks, Facilities and Recreation Master Plan. E. Lees & Associates Consulting Ltd were acquired to conduct the plan with assistance provided by Lees and Associates Landscape Architects and Planners, Fred J. Galloway, and Nicholson Sheffield Architects Inc. It is a very well-executed plan that was very thorough and included Cemetery Planning and Forest Management. It has significant strategic recommendations and is still utilized in decision-making today.
Why are we going through this process
While the all-encompassing comprehensive plan conducted in 2015 had a 20-year focus, Recreation Master Plans are often reviewed every 10 years to ensure continued success of needs being met.
The 2015 Plan was completed because of a need that was realized when the local economy in Norfolk County experienced significant transitions due to the change in the tobacco industry, manufacturing, and related sectors. Tourism in the area was increasing, and the Port Dover area was growing exponentially with an influx of more senior citizens.
Now, Council has acknowledged the enduring impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, increasing financial constraints, ongoing population growth, shifts in age demographics, a heightened emphasis on equality, diversity, and inclusivity, as well as evolving sports trends, and emerging demands for parks and recreational facilities. In light of these factors, Council has approved a staff-led initiative to undertake a comprehensive review of the specific Recreation-related areas in the existing plan.
