#HeartYourParks campaign bringing awareness of of community parks in Clarington
Published July 2, 2024 at 9:33 am
More than a thousand residents shared photos and stories about the beauty of Clarington’s parks and open spaces last month during the #HeartYourParksClarington campaign.
Residents also attended a series of community events and coloured flags showing how they play in Clarington. The flags, which depicted swimming, basketball, pickleball, tennis, walking, splash pads, biking, cricket, baseball and everything in between, were collected and are now on display at Clarington recreation centres across the municipality.
The campaign was part of an effort by the municipality to showcase the importance of parks during a “challenging” time for communities, with recent provincial legislative changes – see Bill 23, the More Homes Built Faster Act – cutting the parkland dedication requirements by developers by as much as half.
Being able to access community parks, trails and open space consistently ranks as a top priority for the community during parks and recreation plan surveys, said Clarington Mayor Adrian Foster.
“We know residents love parks and open green space in Clarington, and we’re committed to protecting the tremendous quality of life we enjoy now,” Foster explained. “Now more than ever, it’s important that we send a clear message about the value of our parkland – and our residents did just that with #HeartYourParksClarington. Thank you to everyone who took the time to participate.”
Residents coloured wish flags depicting all the ways they play in Clarington. The flags are now on display at Clarington facilities across the municipality
Legislative challenges imposed by the provincial government aside, Foster said Clarington is committed to responsible growth as part of its 2024-2027 Strategic Plan and is working with the development community on parkland dedications for new neighbourhoods, where possible.
Residents are invited to share their love for their local parks, trails, sports fields or outdoor space in Clarington for a chance to win a prize. Visit www.clarington.net/HeartYourParks to learn more.
